Valentines and Roses

Because of the time of year, I know where many of your think I’m going with this message. But, trust me, this is not a blog promoting the florist industry (well not exactly)!

We are all familiar with the phrase “stop and smell the roses.” It’s one of those time-tested phrases that I’m sure we’ve all heard and have probably even said a time or two. And yes, we all know it to be true, but do we believe in it enough to actually ascribe to it? And if so, how often, and how long should we carry out the act of stopping to smell the roses?

Stopping to smell the roses is simply an idiomatic expression to remind us to take time out of our busy schedules to appreciate all that we do have. This phrase as been around for ages, and I’m sure that it has always been applicable. Today, in our world that never sleeps, it has never been more applicable. In fact, there is scientific evidence that appreciating the meaningful things and people in our lives may play an even larger role in our overall happiness than previously thought.

Related: There’s science behind stopping to smell the roses!

Are we there yet?

Our working lives, and much of our social lives, are all centered around getting somewhere. You know, that goal setting thing! But, what about where you are today, right now at this very moment? Is it from goals set years ago, days ago, or is it from happenstance, or a set of circumstances? Probably, for most of us, it is a combination.

We often become so focused on the “goal,” the “end game,” that we forget to enjoy the “here and now.” Visiting with friends, family or yourself. Enjoying a movie or lunch with a long-time friend; a nice stroll through a park {😊} with a friend or family member. If you’re one of those people who are really busy, find a quiet spot to simply take in a big breath of air (as if smelling a beautiful rose), and while slowing exhaling, think of all the blessings you have in your life.  The simple fact that you are here now!

For a Happier Life:

Stop and Smell the Roses (Being grateful for what you have) DAILY!

This only needs to be briefly: Smelling roses too long can lead to bee stings!

Include a friend or family member regularly

With that being said, I would be remiss if I did not use this as an excellent lead in to a special Valentine’s message.

Where do you fall in your opinion of Valentine’s Day? 

* “It’s just a day created by Hallmark, the florist and chocolatiers!”

* “We celebrate our love every day, why single out just one day?”

* “Flowers and cards have led to extravagant dinners and jeweler’s panacea.

I’ve always found Valentine’s Day sort of interesting: I like to call it the Valentine’s pendulum because opinions run the gamut and tend to swing from one year to the next. It seems more so than any other recognized day.

Won’t you be my Valentine?

As with most things, commercialism has stolen the spot light. To me, Valentine’s Day is a time to celebrate the relationships in our lives. Remember back in grade school, when you gave everyone in the class a valentine? I think that sometimes the intimacy gets in the way of the true valentine spirit. After all, it is an opportunity to celebrate! What can be wrong with that?

Whatever your belief or feeling is regarding Valentine’s Day, I hope that you will use it to stop and smell the roses. Sure, it may seem like a silly holiday, but it can serve as an opportunity to appreciate all you have and celebrate it.

I must say that I feel truly blessed with all the relationships in my life including all of you that read this blog and support our cause to Live A Happier Life! I am also very blessed that my most special Valentine is also my very best friend!

I love you Rachel! You have made this adventure a true celebration!

And yes, I supported the florist industry as I do every year because she oh-so-loves flowers – a true horticulturalist!

Live Happier: Celebrate every chance you get!

Join in the conversation. What are your thoughts?