Valentine’s Day: Love Lost and Found

As Valentine’s Day arrives, reflections on love take center stage. Robin Abcarian, a columnist at the Los Angeles Times, shares personal insights emphasizing the joy found in Sees Candy, even as a single individual.

Having been single for over a decade, Abcarian’s journey began with a sudden divorce revelation. The manila envelope containing divorce papers, coupled with her husband’s casual demeanor, marked the end of a nearly 30-year marriage.

The aftermath of her divorce was a period of introspection and acceptance, leading Abcarian to embrace her single status wholeheartedly. Despite the initial shock, she found solace in her independence and the freedom to pursue her own desires and interests.

Reflecting on the significance of conflict in relationships, Abcarian cites the work of renowned psychologists John Gottman and Julie Schwartz Gottman. Their research at the Love Lab and the development of the “Fight Right” theory shed light on the dynamics of marital discord and the importance of healthy communication.

Transitioning to a personal anecdote, Wallace Lane of The Baltimore Banner recounts a memorable Valentine’s Day experience that shaped his views on love and gift-giving. His past romantic gestures, from heartfelt poems to creative scavenger hunts, took a turn when a gift disparity highlighted underlying insecurities.

Shaylah, the recipient of Lane’s gifts, inadvertently triggered a shift in his approach to romance, leading to a period of gift anxiety and reevaluation. The incident served as a catalyst for personal growth and a deeper understanding of the essence of love beyond material expressions.

Through self-reflection and growth, Lane acknowledges the transformative power of intentionality and sincerity in romantic gestures. As he navigates his renewed perspective on Valentine’s Day, Lane embraces the opportunity to reignite his passion for romantic expression.

The narrative of love lost and found, as shared by Abcarian and Lane, encapsulates the complexities and evolutions of romantic relationships, underscoring the enduring value of self-discovery and authenticity in matters of the heart.