Ah, mid February. The time of year that clearly divides people into those who are currently “with someone” and those who aren’t. And, more importantly, a time that makes those who aren’t feel ashamed of their single status.
One of my biggest pet peeves is when this is on the TV. Shows are now filled with strong, independent, successful women doing all sorts of wonderful things. Women who smile bravely when their friends jet off to hang out with their wonderful boyfriends. Pretending that being single isn’t actually the Worst. Thing. Ever.
Sex In The City was the worst offender of this. Reruns still make me mad. Here we have four incredibly hot, well off, successful women, and all they do is sit around and whine about men. Seriously?
But I digress. This isn’t about TV. It’s about me.
I’m not against romantic relationships in theory. I just don’t think it’s the be-all and end-all to life. The few relationships I’ve found myself in have all left me feeling…well…not quite me. Like I’m giving up or ignoring something fundamental. Something I can’t put my finger on, but I just know is missing.
So I spent most of my twenties as a swinging single. And while I haven’t made a pledge or anything, I think it’s likely my thirties will be enjoyed the same way. If I happen to blindly stumble over love, lose my balance and fall into it head first, cool. If not, I’ll be just fine. Because, know what?
I actually enjoy my own company. I like me. In fact, I’m going to come right out and admit it: I love me.
And to celebrate this great love affair, on Valentines Day I’m going to do something really special for me. I don’t want to ruin the surprise for myself, but I’m thinking I’ll treat myself to flowers, a good bottle of wine, a nice steak, and then I’ll take myself book shopping (the best kind of shopping in the world).
Well, maybe I’ll take myself shopping before I drink the wine…
To all you lovers out there – go off and be happy and do lover-y things. All the power to you.
To all you singles out there – go off and be happy and do WHATEVER YOU WANT!
To me – Happy Valentines Day! You’re the best!
Photo Credits
“My Valentine” © Flickr. Creative Commoms. Some rights reserved.
You nailed it there indeed Sarah. So many of us … women and men … don’t know how to be in a relationship without giving up an important part of themselves. “Loving ourselves” this is not something our society endorses … it makes us sound … self centered … egocentric … Yet, the second greatest commandment given us “you shall love your neighbour as yourself” implies that loving ourselves is necessary in order to be able to overflow this love to others. Other religions share this philosophy. The most successful relationships are the ones where both partners are fully themselves and rejoice in each other’s uniqueness.
Sarah …. you are indeed the best!
Enjoying your own company is the most important thing, whether or not you have a relationship. Sex in the City is riddled with issues, I remember watching it with my ex-girlfriend and thinking “Why do so many women love this show?” I can think of some pat answers, but it still boggles me how many progressive, feminist, independent woman seemed hooked on those 4 seriously overdressed and manicured women and their relationship “problems.”
I love me too!! But I also love my sweetie. Probably cuz he’s the first one that DOESN’T make me feel not like me. You nailed it there 😉