2.14.2013

meh is an acceptable answer...


So my students asked me what Valentine's Day means to me and I just kind of cocked my head and shrugged. Maybe it's because I'm not celebrating a relationship that I don't really have strong feelings about it. But even last year when I was dating, it wasn't a significant holiday, but it was in the last gasp, maybe that's why it wasn't a big deal... Anyhoodle... What does Valentine's Day mean to me? Well, it's an artificial day. That is a drawback. It is, also, however, a day to celebrate love. And who doesn't need a little love? I had about five minutes left over in first period class so I asked them to doodle a Valentine offering love to the world. I said, "Let's send some loving vibes into the world." They did. With much discussion and some hilarity.

After my health scare in 2006, I've made it a priority to let significant people know they are significant. Actually, I try to let everyone know that they mean something to me. I look service people (cashiers, wait staff, etc) fully in the face when I interact with them and give my full attention. One of my school friends even noticed that I give my full attention to my students, that I don't clump them together, they are individuals. Last year, one of my challenging students said I was his favorite teacher because I accept him for who he is. That is one of the biggest compliments I've ever been given.

That's what Valentine's Day means to me. It's an extra reminder to take a moment to send love out. To the world, to my peeps, to my students. And to myself. Even if I have a meh love life.

2 comments:

Janet said...

I love the exercise with the students! Happy Valentine's day :-)

The Gal Herself said...

This is so nice! So positive. I got home last night and found Valentines from my aunt and my cousin and they made me happy. Like you, I have a meh love life, but that doesn't mean my life is without love.