“Only people who are capable of loving strongly can also suffer great sorrow…”- Leo Tolstoy
Missing a loved one can be an emotional roller coaster. Some days are easier to manage, while others – like Valentine’s Day – can be tough. You see red and pink at every turn. But you’ve lost your significant other, and all you feel is blue. Grief just doesn’t mix with roses, love songs and heart-shaped boxes of chocolate.
But the loved one you are missing wouldn’t want you to be overwhelmed with sadness, so instead, use February 14th as a day to honor their memory as well as the love you shared.
New Twist on Tradition – If you had a favorite restaurant that you went to with your loved one, create a new memory by going back with a friend or family member. No, it won’t be the same as before, but it might be nice to reminisce with a friend. Or you could honor your shared love of food by going to a completely new restaurant and starting a new food experience.
Pay It Forward – Volunteer for a cause you love. Doing something nice for someone in need will make you feel good knowing you have done something for others. Not sure of where to begin? Nursing homes, food banks and animal rescue shelters are usually a good starting point. And if you aren’t ready to jump into the volunteer experience just yet, start out small by purchasing some canned goods to donate to a church, who in turn, will donate them for you. As Aesop once said, “No act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted.”
Do Something You Love – You could even do something that you loved to do with your significant other. Did you enjoy going to the movies as a couple? Grab some friends and see the latest blockbuster at the theater, or invite them to a Movie Night at your home. In this way, you honor your loved one’s memory.
Treat Yourself – Buy your favorite chocolates or candy. Get a massage, or go to a salon. Just because it’s Valentine’s Day doesn’t mean that you can’t do something nice for yourself – you deserve it!
Grieving a significant other can be overwhelming – especially on days that celebrate romantic love. But by celebrating Valentine’s Day in a different way, you can turn it into a day that honors all kinds of love, and that in turn, will honor the one you are missing.
We hope you’ll be able to celebrate Valentine’s Day in a way that’s meaningful to you. But if you just aren’t ready, consider joining one of our support groups, or one that’s close to you.