Valentines Day -- Loving and Being Loved

Several years ago on Valentines Day, I ran to Kroger to pick up a few things.  As I got out of my car in the parking lot and walked across the lot to enter the store, I saw a man leaving, carrying a beautiful bouquet of fresh flowers!   For some reason, it moved me to tears. Here was a middle-aged, short, stocky guy ... not romantic looking or attractive in any way.  And yet, I realized he was incredibly blessed because he LOVES someone.

Maybe she's a wife, a sweetheart, a daughter, a mother ... no matter, he has SOMEONE to love.

And maybe she loves HIM in return!

Love is a gift...both sides of love -- loving and being loved.

If you love someone today ... let him/her know!  If you are loved by someone today ... be thankful!

Above all, dear friend, know that you are loved by your God ... be thankful and let HIM know!

We love because He first loved us! 1 John 4:19

HAPPY VALENTINES DAY!

conversation hearts

I love this poem.  I discovered in the form of a picture book when my kids were young.  I used to give it to my adult ESOL & GED students with several Hershey Hugs and a real hug!  Why not give it a try with someone you love!

Hugs by Ron Stopkoski

It's wondrous what a hug can do.
A hug can cheer you when you're blue
A hug can say, "I love you so,”
Or, "Gee, I hate to see you go."

A hug is, "Welcome back again,"
And, "Great to see you!  Where have you been?
"A hug can soothe a small child's pain
And bring a rainbow after rain.

The hug! There's just no doubt about it!
We scarcely could survive with out it!
A hug delights and warms and charms.
It must be why God gave us arms.

Hugs are great for fathers and mothers,
Sweet for sisters, swell for brothers.
And chances are your favorite aunts
Love them more than potted plants.

Kittens crave them. Puppies love them.
Heads of state are not above them.
A hug can break the language barrier
And make your travels so much merrier.

No need to fret about your store of 'em;
The more you give the more there's more of  'em.
So stretch those arms without delay
And GIVE SOMEONE A HUG TODAY!!!!