Valentine's Day

One of the local utility providers in our area sent out an interesting email this morning on the day prior to Valentines Day. They were encouraging us to share a "HUG" with someone today. Their concept of a "HUG" was a "Home Utility Gift" Certificate. This gift certificate would be applied to the account of certain people in your life in which you desired to celebrate and appreciate on Valentines Day. I do not this post to be misconstrued or misunderstand. The utility company's idea is certainly a novel approach that might be more beneficial than any other gift that you could share with these individuals.

BUT the word "HUG" grabbed my attention. There was a Public Service Announcement that ran in Kentucky for many years and it asked this question; "Have you hugged your kid today. Did you send him on his way with love?" It was a subtle reminder to hold close to your heart those children that God had placed in your life. I can still hear that jingle in my head even to this day.

Millions of dollars will be spent on cards, candy, flowers, jewelry and dinner dates. I do not want anyone to jump to the conclusion or make the assumption that I am against any of these actions that someone may take today, tomorrow or in the future. But I will share this thought with you; that many of the "gift ideas" that I just mentioned will not fully meet the need of those special people that you love. Many of them are truly in need of a HUG and I am not referring to any type of gift certificate. 

I am referring to a warm, thoughtful and loving embrace that only you can share with those you love. Cards, candy, dinner, or any other gift that you can offer will never take the place of you and the hug that you can share. I know that I may be accused of being cheap and looking for the easy way out of this holiday. But when did "love" become a holiday that we had to celebrate with fancy gifts? Many of us can remember those times in our lives in which our finances were short and our budget was very tight. BUT the love for our spouse, children, parents, siblings, dear friends etc. was present in a very deep, appreciative, respectful and thankful manner. And that love flowed like a river from the depths of our heart and soul. 

Give whatever you can afford to give. Share whatever you feel led to share. Enjoy a great meal at a wonderful restaurant. BUT please remember this at the end of the day; "True love can not be bought with a price. It is a gift that comes from God and comes through God. Share yourself with those you love today. Share YOUR HUGS WITH THEM! Your gifts will never take the place of your HUGS!!!"