Valentine's Day a chance to enjoy own company - Havelock News

Monday

Feb 10, 2020 at 12:01 AM

Dear Cindy: I am a single woman, by choice. I really like my own company and live a full and happy life except around Valentine’s Day. I know that sounds weird. Other major holidays such as Thanksgiving, Christmas and even New Year’s don’t bother me at all. I don’t have any family close by so I figure out things to do — either with friends or by myself.

It makes no sense to me that Valentine’s Day would be so tough. I truly get down and am envious of others who receive chocolate, flowers, jewelry, and gifts at the office. Some years I take the day off just to avoid feeling bad. Do I need to see a counselor? — Why Valentine‘s Day?

Dear Why Valentine‘s Day: Valentine’s Day invites all of the goodies you described to the menu. Chocolate, flowers, jewelry, gifts at the office, just to name a few. Thanksgiving and certainly Christmas offer other sorts of activities that include spending time with others, attending various parties and joining folks during dinners and church functions.

Admittedly Valentine’s Day does seems to always be about couples — love, engagement rings and bliss. This may be why this holiday seems harder. But I don’t think that you need to see a counselor. Harder does not have to mean envious or lonely. Think about re-creating a holiday (any holiday) to your specifications.

Send yourself flowers. Buy your favorite chocolate (or your favorite candy or cake). Pre-order and pick up a meal from a restaurant you love and go home and play your favorite music.Tailor the event to your specifications. What would appeal to you?

Look at this as another opportunity to enjoy your own company.

Cindy Davis is a retired, licensed professional counselor. All inquiries are confidential. Questions can be emailed to cindysuggests@gmail.com.