What Does Love Have to Do With It?

Recently, I read an article by a single man (he describes himself as a 'Grown-Ass' single man) and how he tries to cope with that status at Christmas, when those of his friends who are married or partnered, tend to be a little bit pitying towards him and his singleness.

As one who was married for 21 years and now has been single for 24 years, I have been on both sides of the holiday table, and have found that whether I have someone special to love or not, does not detract from the significance and the specialness of the holiday for me. In fact, when I was married and had a growing family, Christmas had a meaning that was totally different from what it means to me now, but both states have been full of the good vibes that come automatically with each season's celebration. I don't envy those who have partners, and I don't feel 'less-than' because I'm single. Each state has it's own positives and negatives, and I prefer neither one over the other.

Love has a lot to do with who we are individually, and how readily we have accepted and adapted to our status. That is the real essence of love....for ourselves first....which then permits us to love others fully and unselfishly, regardless of the season.

Some years I have a Christmas tree, this year I didn't, but all years are filled with the richness of holiday music, some recorded, and some created by me. And I don't need music to put me in the mood, neither shopping nor the usual parties, all I need is to be alive - to be breathing and in good health - that's enough to make it memorable for me. Those friends and family that I am able to spend time with and correspond with, are the icing on the cake and are a great substitute for the lack of that special someone so many think is necessary. This season is almost over now, and in a few days the new year of 2007 will be here. I'm already looking forward to the next holiday season!

Finally, Love has always had and continues to have, a lot to do with everything - but maybe not in quite the same way many people tend to think it does - this is how I see it!

Happy New Year to all the long-suffering and wonderful readers of my blog!