Valentine’s Day can be one of the loneliest days of the year. Many people dread it due to their current single status: still waiting to meet their mate, widowed, or divorced. The numerous workplace floral deliveries on February 14th.

The office door and its echoing ding engages momentary excitement that maybe this time the flowers are for me.

And then they aren’t.

Again.

This seesaw of up and down can trample emotional nerves. The conditioning of floral expectation so strong that even when I was not dating anyone I still felt that flutter of maybe.

Do we carry the idea that a formal bouquet of blooms validates us and tells the world/co-workers that we are loved?

According to Merriam-Webster’s online dictionary, bloom (verb) means to change, grow, or develop fully. I love the thought that each one of us can bloom when we face challenges. Instead of being a symbol of sadness, flowers can encourage people in their singleness.

How can singles bloom this Valentine’s Day?

  1. Make a Plan

Plan one or two events for Valentine’s Day. These can be large or small – shopping, a trip to a museum or movie with a friend. Don’t allow the day to take you by surprise.

  1. Care for Yourself

Get plenty of rest the next few days, eat healthy food, and be careful with alcohol consumption. Take a walk on Saturday. If you live in the city go to a nearby park and breathe in the fresh air. Drink in God’s creation and find something simple to be thankful for – a beautiful tree, birds singing, or clouds in the sky. Put electronics down and look up.

  1. Spend Time with Friends or Loved Ones

Invite a friend or loved one over for lunch or dinner to celebrate the gift of friendship and family. Reach out in love to someone you know is struggling.

If you are single this Valentine’s Day, conquer loneliness by blooming – make a plan, care for yourself, and spend time with friends and loved ones.

(What are your suggestions for how to bloom this Valentine’s Day? Please share your Valentine experience here next week and encourage someone else.)