You Are Loved

For much of my life, I was looking for love in all the wrong places. I thought love had to come from someone else to make me feel whole, validated, and cherished. I chased relationships, hoping they would fill the gaps in my heart, only to find myself feeling empty when they didn’t. It wasn’t until I learned to truly love myself—without conditions, without needing someone else’s approval—that everything changed.

When I finally embraced my own worth, I was able to create a marriage rooted in real love. And now, after 30 years of marriage, I can say with certainty: the deepest love starts within.

Valentine’s Day happens this month and often conjures images of candlelit dinners, romantic gestures, and red roses. While these traditions can be beautiful expressions of love, they also carry the weight of expectation. If you’re in a relationship, you might feel pressure to make it magical. If you’re single, you might feel a pang of loneliness, wondering where you fit into a celebration that seems so centered on couples.

But let’s shift the perspective. Valentine’s is not just about romance—it’s about love in all its forms. And at the heart of it all, there is one universal truth: You are loved!

Love Begins with You

We often seek love outside of ourselves, believing that it must come from another person to be real. But the most profound love—the one that sustains, heals, and strengthens—is the love we cultivate for ourselves.

This is not just about self-care routines or positive affirmations (though those are wonderful). It’s about recognizing your inherent worth, celebrating your own existence, and honoring the journey that has made you who you are.

Ways to Deepen Self-Love:

• Acknowledge Your Worth: You don’t need external validation to be lovable. You were born worthy of love. Say it, believe it, embody it.
• Treat Yourself with Kindness: The way you speak to yourself matters. Be as gentle with yourself as you would be with a dear friend.
• Celebrate Your Journey: Every experience—joyful or painful—has shaped you. Honor your resilience and growth.
• Do What Brings You Joy: Love yourself by giving yourself experiences that light you up—whether that’s dancing in your living room, reading a book, or taking a spontaneous day trip.

Expanding Love Beyond Romance

Love is not confined to romantic relationships. It is woven into every interaction, every connection, and every act of kindness.

Where Love Shows Up:

• Friendships: The people who see you, support you, and make you laugh until your stomach hurts. These bonds are just as powerful as any romantic love.
• Family (by Blood or by Choice): Those who have walked beside you through life, reminding you that you are not alone.
• Passions & Purpose: Love is also found in the things that set your soul on fire—the work, hobbies, and creative expressions that bring you alive.
• Moments of Connection: A smile from a stranger, a deep conversation, the warmth of a hug—these seemingly small moments are love in motion.

If You Are in a Relationship…

Being in a relationship during Valentine’s season comes with expectations. But instead of feeling pressured to create the perfect moment, focus on what truly matters—connection.

Ways to Deepen Love in a Relationship:

• Express Appreciation Often: Take a moment to genuinely express why you love and appreciate your partner. Words hold power.
• Be Present: Put away distractions and be fully present with your loved one. True intimacy is found in attention.
• Celebrate Your Unique Love Story: Every relationship has its own rhythm. Instead of comparing, honor what makes yours special.
• Give Love in Their Language: If you’re familiar with the five love languages (words of affirmation, acts of service, receiving gifts, quality time, physical touch), use this knowledge to love your partner in the way they receive it best.

If You Are Single…

Singleness is not a waiting period—it is a chapter of its own, filled with freedom, self-discovery, and opportunities for deep connection with yourself and others.

Ways to Celebrate Love as a Single Person:

• Plan a Self-Love Date: Take yourself out to your favorite restaurant, book a spa day, or watch a movie that makes you happy.
• Celebrate with Friends: Host a Gal-entine’s or Pal-entine’s gathering, celebrating the love of friendship.
• Write a Love Letter to Yourself: Acknowledge your growth, your beauty, and your worth. Keep it as a reminder for days when self-doubt creeps in.
• Do Something That Makes You Feel Loved: Whether it’s buying yourself flowers, dancing to your favorite song, or taking time to rest—choose love in action.

The Ultimate Love: Love That Flows Through You

At the deepest level, love is not just something you receive; it is something you are. When you embody love—through kindness, compassion, and openness—you naturally attract it into your life.

This Valentine’s, whether you are single or in a relationship, remember:
You are loved. You are enough. And you are worthy of every kind of love—romantic, platonic, self, and universal.

So, go forth and celebrate love in all its forms. Not just today, but every single day. 💖

Love and Light,

Cynthia