Soapbox 

 I've always been a sucker for Valentine's Day. Cards, candy, special treats, what more could a kid want?

As I've grown older and had kids of my own, the meaning of the holiday has changed. It's no longer about the number of cards from classmates; there is just no lasting value for the soul in that. For me, Valentine's Day is a time for appreciating the people in my life.

It seems as though women spend a great deal of time and energy "doing" for others. As a friend, partner, mother, co-worker, etc., women are traditionally expected to take a nurturing role. It seems obvious that each person has a limited amount of emotional resources. If all of one's energy is spent "doing" and caring for others, how much is left over for self-care? Is there any wonder why burn-out is common among women today? Successfully balancing all the roles women play, while maintaining any sense of self, is virtually impossible. Constant "doing" leaves no time for "being".

So this year, I propose we add one more name to our Valentine Lists; Our Selves. Set aside some time or space just for you. Give yourself the one thing that is better than chocolates, a little inner Peace.

all the best,

Catie

© Copyright 1999 WomanLinks.com

About the Author : Catie Hayes is founder/editor of WomanLinks.com; a community of support, spirituality, growth and empowerment for women. She is a freelance writer, the single homeschooling mom of two, and an avid fan of laughter, spontaneous dancing, cats and chocolate (not necessarily in that order).