When You’re Single on Valentine’s Day

No, I’m not single. Let’s just get that out of the way. I’m happily married with two children…so if you’re wondering why I’m writing about being single, let me explain…

My husband and I started dating when we were 27 and got married when we were 30. That means I spent roughly 12-15 years of Valentine’s Days single. (Technically, I spent almost 30 Valentine’s Days single, but those last 12-15 were the hardest.)

single-on-valentines-day

Believe me when I tell you I know a thing or two about being single. As a general rule, I wasn’t sad or depressed. I lived a full life–I had a lot of friends and a healthy social life. But there was something about Valentine’s Day that seemed to bring me down, no matter how content I was with my life.

While the rest of the world is expressing their love to their most important person, you can’t help feeling even more alone when you’re single. Somewhere, deep down, you really are happy for all the adorable couples in the world. Still, it’s not an easy day when you’re not one of them. I get it.

As an old married woman now, I think I have a little perspective to offer. So if I could sit down with each of my single friends over coffee and share my “big sister” advice with you, here’s what I would say:

1. You are loved.

Remember this: Alone does not mean unloved.

Just because you’re the only one who doesn’t get roses at work or a card in the mail, it doesn’t mean no one loves you. You probably know this already, but you’ve somehow managed to forget it in the midst of all the greeting card and jewelry commercials.

There are people around you who love you…parents, siblings, friends, family. They may be focused on their own relationships right now, but that doesn’t mean they love you any less. They’re just distracted. You need to know that.

And just in case you can’t think of anyone who loves you, let me give you a hint…

What marvelous love the Father has extended to us! Just look at it—we’re called children of God! That’s who we really are. (1 John 3:1, The Message)

2. God has a plan.

I can see your eyes rolling now. Because, yes, that’s what I did at age 25 when someone said those words to me. It seemed so trite at the time, when I was “so old” and still single. Trust me…it’s not trite. It’s not cliché. It’s true.

God sees you exactly where you are. He loves you exactly how you are. And He has a plan for you.

I know what I’m doing. I have it all planned out—plans to take care of you, not abandon you, plans to give you the future you hope for. (Jeremiah 29:11, The Message)

I don’t know if His plan includes marriage. I don’t know if it includes a relationship (and yes, I know how scary that sounds right now). But I know this: His plan is the best. And just because you’re not in a relationship right now doesn’t mean you’ll never be. And, hear this: it doesn’t mean there’s anything wrong with you! It could mean He’s got something to do in you before He brings someone to you.

3. Have fun.

This might seem a little difficult this Valentine’s Day weekend when you’re afraid to venture into public for fear of puking at the sight of another red heart balloon. But you can invite some girlfriends over to watch a movie (maybe not a romance) or play games. Or get a group together for a night out on the town. I guarantee you’re not the only one without plans this weekend. And Valentine’s Day outings are not regulated to couples only!

Here’s the bigger idea: Instead of pining away or growing anxious about your singleness, make the most of your time. Further your education. Volunteer. Take up a hobby. Grow your interests. Press in to know God more.

In the 10 years I was a single adult, I was able to complete my education, gain valuable work experience (that’s when I seriously took up writing), lead a ministry team, participate in numerous missions trips, and travel to places like Alaska and Paris.

I’ve learned by now to be quite content whatever my circumstances. I’m just as happy with little as with much, with much as with little. I’ve found the recipe for being happy whether full or hungry, hands full or hands empty. Whatever I have, wherever I am, I can make it through anything in the One who makes me who I am. (Philippians 4:11, 12 The Message)

This is where I would set down my coffee cup, lean in close, and hope you really hear me when I say, Your story doesn’t begin when you get married; you’re writing your story now.

Yes, dear sister, dream about your future mate. And definitely pray for him. But don’t forget to live your life now. God not only has a plan for your future; He has a plan for your present.

Make the most of every opportunity. (Colossians 4:5)

 

 

6 thoughts on “When You’re Single on Valentine’s Day

  1. Nancy….I always enjoy your messages. I’m not always in full agreement but I enjoy your perspectives. so very happy about your life victories in all of their dimensions. pk

    1. Paul, I’m so glad you enjoy reading, even when you don’t fully agree. 😉 I hope you’ll continue…say “hi” to Kathy for us! ~Nancy

  2. Thank you for your words of encouragement but I’m 49 years old , divorced and nothing has workout since my divorce, in fact, I ha e only dated 3 guys and 2 of them ended in complete disaster and total devistation and the last happened just this week. I’m going to pick up the pie once again and learn to love myself once again but I think I’m at the end of the road, as far as finding love with another person.

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