Valentine’s Day
The world lost two souls to cancer the same day this week - one I didn’t know and one I did.
It hits like a ton of bricks.
And here is this single cancer survivor’s unpopular opinion on Valentine’s Day:
I won’t shed tears over someone who never showed up or the life I thought I would have.
It’s an afront to the people who did and still do show up, to the ones who stayed, to the precious existence I have right now.
I have no time for waste and wishing is wasteful.
“But Jen, it sounds like you’ve given up!”
I haven’t given up anything; I’ve let go and there’s a big difference. One is defeating; the other is freeing.
And there’s a world of possibility that opens up when your life’s purpose and happiness aren’t tied to a “maybe someday”.
Life is a breath.
In all your searching for what you don’t have, be careful not to miss everything you’ve already been given.
Thank you to @bearscupbakehouse for this love-ly duo. And for donating a portion of the proceeds to the @americancancersociety.
My heart is full.
Valentine’s Day 2023
PSA: stop telling single women we’re not doing enough to find a spouse.
So many of us are in various stages of the search, taking a break from the search, or content but hopeful.
You don’t know what a woman has experienced that’s led her to where she is.
“Put yourself out there” is a directive that has long since worn out its welcome.
We are active in our communities, running businesses, and traveling the world. It doesn’t even apply.
And stop throwing around online dating like it’s a one-size-fits-all, one-stop shopping, magic bullet.
It might not be right for everyone and there are so many factors to consider when investing energy into strangers on the internet, beyond casual social media interactions.
When you’re married, no one is asking you what it is or why it is. You’re free to navigate the twists and turns as you both change and grow.
We are no different - we deserve the freedom and respect to navigate the journey we are on, and above all else, to just be able to LIVE.
Without the pressure. Without the time tables. Without the assumptions.
Now, if you’ll excuse me, I have some calls to make.