Love Finds a Way

Love finds a way. Even in lockdown.

2020 viral video clips of creative, social distanced dating made it clear that unless there was a quick vaccination turn-around, Valentine’s Day 2021 was not going to be of the usual sort.

Like most major crises, the pandemic has taught us to consider what really matters. It turns out we can do without certain things we had grown used to, such as, daily commutes to work (for some) or traveling long distances for meetings and conferences. The time saved from these previously required behaviours should go some way to help improve our need for personal connections as we find more inventive ways to connect.

There are however things we cannot do without. One of these of course, is love. Whether you have spent this Valentine’s Day by yourself or with your loved one, here are some lessons from love in lockdown:

• Love makes great sacrifices – as demonstrated by the heroic essential workers all around the world.
• Love endures through tough times. Just ask the parents who have had to monitor their children’s online schooling!
• Love is patient. You have had to endure a challenging year, hoping that one day soon, you can see and hold all your loved ones you have had to keep physical distance from.
• Early in lockdown, the kindness of love taught us not to hoard supplies that others would need as much as we do. #toiletpaper
• In love, we realise there is no need to believe we are better than others. We have all been through the last year – regardless of personal circumstances.
• With tempers short, we can all learn to love our neighbours and not get easily provoked or think evil towards them.
• Love teaches us to be careful what we say and what we share, so we do not spread misinformation that could harm others.
• Love is hopeful – it is going to get better.

You may have struggled through Valentine’s Day. Remember that it has been a tough year for all the world. So, do not be too hard on yourself. Even if you have made bad decisions that you regret, heal, and let love find its way to you.