Will You Be My Valentine?

Maybe. Maybe not. Unlikely, I'm taken. But Happy V-Day to you wherever you are. Seriously.

You don't have to look very far on your timeline on Facebook or other social media platforms to observe many lonely hearts out there around the world, hoping for Cupid to pull back his bow and let loose his arrow of romantic love.

But love isn't in the air for everybody. Some will be spending time at home alone and watching Rom Com's on Netflix, dreaming for a future heart throb to appear in their life like something out of a fairy tale. Hey, it could happen.

You and I see sad selfies, broken heart emojis, and people begging on the cool for someone, anyone, to ask them out on a dinner date or a night on the town. We can't blame folks for wanting to join in on the fun and festivities on the holiday.

Unfortunately, the pandemic that is still sweeping the globe has curtailed many outdoor weddings, parties and all around fun. It has stabbed many in the heart.

Here in Asia many people believe the United States has the biggest celebrations on Valentine's Day, but it got me to thinking: who else celebrates the holiday?

I was surprised to learn that Iran came in at number one, Honduras number two, and the Philippines rounded out the top 10. The US barely made the top 20, coming in at distant 17th.

On this day of all things love, people send gift cards, flowers, candy, jewelry, clothing, and set aside a special time for one another. Been there, done that, bought that, and gave the t-shirt to The Salvation Army years ago.

If you don't have any of the above, don't be sad: find a way to share your love. After all, love is more than a feeling: it is action!

Here are a few tips:

Hang out with friends, family or even your deserving pets.

Curl up with a great book with some of your favorite snacks.

Order a new dish for take out.

Call a friend.

Send someone you know who is lonely an anonymous gift card or some flowers.

Curse the heavens for the consumer-driven, trivial interpretation of love day. Go ahead, it may make you feel better.

The ideas are endless. Be creative. Have fun. Enjoy the day whether with or without someone.

In the end, if nobody else will say it, I will: I love each and every one of you, except my ex. Did I tell you about the time she...oh, never mind. Next time.