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Happy St. Valentine's Day

  Three days after Christmas we are inundated with Valentine. It is has become an obligation for one lover to show the object of their affection just how much they care. Hallmark, Russell Stovers, and florists every where are selling their wares and perhaps greedily cackling with mirth.
  But that is so far from what Valentine's day is all about. I could give some sort of history lesson on St. Valentine, bishop and martyr; however, what good is that? It isn't. But I have seen, in the last several days, how different people see this holiday.
  Those who are in committed relationships usually scramble for a gift, men especially. Those who are not in a relationship are usually hating the fact that they are single by calling out the industry as a mass market of money laundering tycoons, or embracing the holiday as just that...a holiday. But, for whatever the sentiment toward this holiday, I have one myself...
  Love. Just love. Not just the kind we feel when our stomachs church seeing our lover do something incredible. Not just the kind we feel when we are truly given a love gift from a friend, family member, or a lover. No. Not just those. All loves.
  This morning started out watching a dear dear friend make the commitment in the sacrament of baptism. Tears so fluidly ran down my face. That was truly a pure expression of love.
  This afternoon I spent it with my lover who had roses, a beautiful card, and a beautiful heart necklace waiting just for me. It is a treasure. It is a gift I will cherish forever.
  Both of these are ways of love. Both are genuine ways God has manifested himself to us and both are a direct reflection of love. I love love. I love gifts that show me love. I love being told I am loved.
  I am so blessed. What a beautiful day to see just how pure and raw love is. And how wonderful to see the different manifestations of such. Happy St. Valentine's Day!

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