Bye Bye Cynicism?[!]

It is my belief that the long-time single woman is programed to believe that chivalry is six feet under and "courtly love" died with Chaucer. We've been single for a long while due to a number of reasons: having encountered one to many bad dates, the last man we dated was some type of alien, or the classic, he's a cheater. Regardless as to why we've been long-time single gals, we hit a point and give up; and Valentine's Day becomes a slap in the face rather than a time to spend with someone special.

For the last three or four years I've spent Valentine's day with my best friend, Amber. Our day usually consisted of early dinner, lots of wine, and so much cynicism that Columbus didn't know what to do with it. We'd exchange goofy gifts and enjoy each others company. Being the single gal that I am, I didn't mind Valentine's day (then) because I knew that I had someone special to spend it with. That all changed last year. She'd finally found the man of her dreams; he's a kind man who would do just about anything for her. And when they first started dating I told her, "you're moving to fast with him" while fighting extreme jealously. As their relationship grew and it got closer to the holiday I'd cringe at in the past, I knew that I would be valentine-less. Though we did our traditional dinner and gifts her cynicism seemed to disappear and love surrounded her like a beautiful cloud on a hot summer day.

So I'm proposing and even challenging the cynical single women everywhere (myself included)--embrace Valentine's Day. Find a good friend to spend it with, regardless of their relationship status. Go on that date with the man who won't take "no" for an answer. Or make plans with the man whom you have an oober crush on or a boy you've known for years.

Now, I know the above paragraph my have come to a shock to those who know me best because I've led you to believe that I am Queen Cynicism and anti-romance. And though this is still slightly true, I'm attempting to let go of those bad thoughts and embrace the opportunity that has landed in my lap, in a man who I'd least expect. I'm trying to believe that chivalry is not rockin a DNR tee and is still alive and well. That men actually want to write those letters and send the daisies you desire; that "courtly love" is still out there it just went on a 5 year vacation.

And so, I could blame my good friend and Valentine's day for my fading skepticism or the great man who is showing me how to embrace kindness, kisses, and endearment...once again.

Happy Valentine's Day!