A Love Letter Life 💌

Fun fact: February 14, 2022 was my 28th "single" Valentine's Day. Pretty sure I'm the only one counting... And probably the only one amused by this fact. 😂

Valentine's can be a tricky day for singles. So. Many. Mixed. Emotions.

Social media becomes a moshpit of lovey-dovey posts, crushing you with reminders of your singleness. Coworkers receive flowers. People get engaged. The whole enchilada.

The day can be isolating. It can be heart-breaking. It can be full of wondering.

"When will my love letter arrive?"

On February 10, 2015, my Sophomore year of college, I published this post on Facebook:

I was 20 years old at the time of this post.

I did a little digging and discovered it was my most-liked Facebook status to date. Honestly, it was the beginnings of sharing my writing online A heartfelt, although imperfect (who says things like "bemoaning the absence of romance" *CRINGE*) expression of my thoughts on singleness. A mission statement of love in all circumstances. How could I have known this post would launch it all?

Here I am, seven years later.

I wonder what 20-year-old me would have thought if I'd known my "status" would be the same now as then. If I'd known the wait would still be endless. I think she would feel a brief sting of sadness, and then... Rejoice!

My relationship status may be the same, but my position isn't the same at all.

Twenty-year-old me was boldly declaring she would cultivate and sustain many beautiful relationships. She would celebrate who she had. She would choose joy.

Twenty-seven-year-old me is living in the glow of a mission being accomplished day-by-day. My friendships are rich, and deep, and true. My connections with acquaintances, church family, and colleagues are laced with love and respect. My bond with family is strong and filled with appreciation.

I am a twenty-seven year old woman without a Valentine, and yet surrounded by Valentines.

I am a twenty-seven year old woman who has never received a love letter, and yet receive Love Letters daily.

Jesus' story is the greatest Love Letter of all time- written to all mankind.

My life will be well-spent writing love letters back to Him and His people. A mission of love- in ALL circumstances.

Twenty-seven year old me treasures this truth: as much as I long for a hand to hold and a partner to serve purposefully with, I would joyfully accept 28+ more "single" Valentine's Days if I knew God was going to get the glory from my (unconventional) love story.

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P.S. To every Mama who has ever said "Thank you for showing my girl/s how to live single life well" and had to deal with me deflecting your compliment... I get it now. Thank you for seeing me. Thank you for affirming me. Thank you for reminding me of my calling and purpose, right here, right now.