Tips for Handling Valentine’s Day in the Midst of Divorce
Valentine’s Day can be particularly difficult for those going through a divorce. For many divorcing couples, Valentine’s Day may also be the day of their wedding. With the focus all around on romantic love while they are in the midst of divorce, they may feel they failed at love. But, it does not have to be that way.
One divorced writer says she actually enjoys the holiday more now that she is divorced. She says “Gone are the expectations and disappointments that often accompanied it in the past.” She makes a strong case for giving up the idea that Valentine’s Day means romance. She has some good suggestions for making the day special without romantic love.
- Find someone who needs a loving gesture. If you know someone who is also alone, maybe even an elderly neighbor, your child’s school teacher, or another single friend. Take them flowers, candy, a card.
- Plan to spend time with another single friend. Go to a movie, a concert, or just hang out. Have a glass of wine or cup of coffee and just chat.
- Value and embrace the love you do have. The writer suggests you start a “Family Love Day” and make it an annual celebration. Spend time with your children doing something creative. Bake cookies with them. If it is warm enough where you live, take them to the park to play. Invite their friends over to play.
- Maybe send a card to your ex. This may be a stretch, but some divorced folks say it makes them feel good to send a card and perhaps just say, “thank you for our children.”
- Sow real seeds of love. This is a good time to start a flower garden. If you are in a cold climate, you may need to start the seeds indoors, but the anticipation of the blooms to come will cheer you up.
- Write yourself a love letter. Tell yourself what a great person you are. List your accomplishments and good things you have done in your life. Do not let your mind wander to anything negative. It must be all positive.
When you find that you can create your own happiness, and that you are not dependent on someone else to provide it for you, your sense of well-being will be restored.
For More Information About Divorce, Contact an Experienced Dallas Family Law Attorney.
To schedule a free initial consultation with a Plano and Dallas Family Law Attorney, contact Paula Lock Smyth Law Offices at 214-420-1800.
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Paula Lock Smyth has practiced law in Texas since 1985, focusing on Family Law, Probate, Mediation, and Collaborative Divorce. She is a trained mediator, seasoned litigator, and one of the early adopters of Collaborative Divorce in Texas. Paula is a member of the State Bar of Texas, the College of the State Bar and the Texas Bar Foundation and has served as Past President of Dallas Lawyers Concerned for Lawyers.
She was a Master in the Annette Stewart Inn of Court and is a Charter Member of the Collaborative Law Institute of Texas. Her legal knowledge and decades of experience make her a trusted voice on matters that impact families across Dallas and surrounding counties.
