Valentine

Love, it's a special day
We should celebrate and appreciate
That you and me found something pretty neat
And I know some say this day is arbitrary 

(Valentine- Kina Grannis)

A little bird once told me that Valentine's Day was merely a ploy for companies such as Hallmark to make lots of money. That may be very probable. Others view it as a day for all the unfortunate singles to deem the cursed day: "Single-Awareness Day". And for many others who have that special someone, it's a day where you can pig out on chocolate and revel in the company of your sweetheart. I am a single, teenage girl who has, for the most part, been alone on Valentine's day. Now, I don't consider myself an "unfortunate single" and think of Valentine's day as a commercialized, pagan holiday. No, I try to think more positively. And, I'm not trying to compensate for my "lonely" state, either. Wouldn't people be a lot happier if they saw this holiday in a different light? While most of my friends would complain about this or that, I would reply: "Isn't this day supposed to be a day where you recognize all those who love you and you love in return? Your family, friends, neighbors, peers, teachers? Don't they deserve to know how much you love them?" I have always believed that Valentine's day was set apart to remind everyone that they should be grateful for the ones they love. And most importantly, the love they feel for themselves.
Now, I've had a bumpy journey in trying to find myself and loving who that person was. I'm still struggling. And I know that many have yet to start that journey. But, I feel like hope will never fail anyone. If anyone has the seed, it will surely grow into something marvelous. So, on this glorious Valentine's day, I have cared less that no one gave me anything. It was remarkable to see the glow on other people's faces. It's what gives me hope that someday... someday, I will have that same glow and wonderful butterflies on this beautiful holiday. But, I am satisfied with myself for now. I am more than happy to revel in the love of my wonderful friends and family. They mean the most to me, after all. 

Start All Over Again

 'Cause sometimes we don't really notice how good it can get, so maybe we should start all over... start all over again. (Someday- Rob Thomas)

I cannot believe that it has been another year. So much has happened, that it nearly boggles my mind sometimes! And now, a new year has begun and the talk of resolutions is at hand. It's wonderful, really! You can take a step back and think, "Hmm, what can I do to improve myself this year?" or "What can I do for someone else?" Either way, it's a new beginning. A way... to start all over again.
I am excited. I can't wait to pull my resolutions out of the dusty hat and force them in motion. Over the past year, I have realized how precious life is, and what a waste it would be if I didn't put it into good use. I can do so much! Nothing is stopping me! For all I know, I can join a swing class, or learn archery, or try not to procrastinate so much. The possibilities are endless... and that's the sad thing. I never thought that I could do a whole lot with my life. I was so scared of trying new things that I look back and think, "Gee, what can I do? What are my talents??" And so, that will be one of my goals this year. I will delve deeper into myself and discover my limitations and strengths that I possess. I will try something different, hunt for my talents. It will be quite the adventure! 
I also decided that I needed to become more positive about things. Being a teenage girl can be rough when you're surrounded with drama, and negativity friends sometimes tend to bring in your life... but I'm going to change that! I will try to look on the bright side of things, do more service, and overall... just work on myself. It will be hard, no doubt, but all good things must come with hard work. 
It's a blessing when you can start all over again.