A Narrative on Valentine's Day
By Robert Fulghum

Every Valentine's Day it's the same thing...either you're thoroughly in love and wondering what your sweetheart will do for you, or you're wondering if you'll meet a sweetheart that will make all your dreams come true. For some this is a time of joy, for others it's a source of pain. But for all, it's a special day held dear in our hearts. Rarely do I find snippets of poems or remembrances that move me to the point of tears.

But, this Valentine's Day, as we contemplate what love is all about, I'd like you to read over this piece by Robert Fulghum from his book Maybe (Maybe Not). This short saga, I believe, encompasses the true definition of love that we all seek, and it will bring a tear of joy, and sadness to your heart.

* * * * * *

It's February. Morning. Cold, gray, windy, wet. Winter conditions outside and inside. A morning to crawl back into bed, pull up the covers, and wait for something better to happen. Like spring, for instance. Instead, I am in a doctor's waiting room in a small-town hospital. In a state of nonspecific ill health. Miserable in body, soul, and mind. Don't know why.

"You're going in for a checkup," says my wife.

So here I am. Fix me.

Across from me is an aged couple, sitting side by side, holding hands.

Neat and clean, washed and pressed. In her white hair, the woman wears a flowery arrangement -- holly with red berries and some red poinsettia leaves. Odd.

The old man catches my eye, breaks into a grin, and says, "Merry Christmas!"

My automatic pilot shoves, “Merry Christmas!” out of my mouth at the same time my brain wakes up and asks, What, what, what...?    more >>