A Little Valentine

For you, and me, and us

On these gray midwinter days, with skies closing in and cold wind spinning around corners and chasing down alleys, may we notice how those holiday lights (the ones that house on the corner still has up) look brighter amidst the fuzzy dimness of it all.

And when the sun does show up, may we gratefully take in the way the lines of buildings look sharper, cleaner somehow against the crisp blue sky. May we feel even just a bit of its warmth through the layers we've bundled ourselves in against the cold.

May we pull out that old favorite sweater. The one that's the best color ever. Pilled at the seams and unraveling a little. But warm. Cozy. Easy. Like a hug from a friend.

Let’s vow to give hugs, accept hugs, and ask each other how we really are. Then listen to the answer and maybe not try to solve it all, but instead simply give each other the gift of being heard. And not alone.

And may we not ever think wow that person's sweater/haircut/positive attitude is fabulous and NOT tell them. In a news cycle that feels devoid of joy and a world that feels divided, let's not hold back even the smallest of kindnesses amongst both friends and strangers.

This Valentine’s day, and always, may we all find the flickers of light. Seek the moments of clarity. Wrap ourselves in comfort. Hold community close. And give joy away freely.

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This Week Last Year

This certainly feels timely to revisit:

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Squirrel of the Week

One last wish, may we also all find something to be as excited about as this squirrel was about a piece of aluminum foil from the trash.

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How are you really, this week? Found any glimmers of light? Given or gotten any small (or big!) kindnesses? ❤️

Sending hugs,

Mary Chris