The word “engagement” has a variety of meanings, among which are a military operation. Yet, on Valentine’s Day, all meanings fall by the wayside in favor of that lyrical time in which two young betrothed people plan for an impending marriage.
Christ regarded marriage as a union equal to that of God and His Church. When all the brightly colored boxes of chocolates find their way to the trash bin and all the roses wilt and bend their stems over the lip of the vase, the true meaning of engagement shines.
Living with another person is a journey of discovery. Even those couples with the closest of relationships often differ in one way or another. The old discussion of where to squeeze the toothpaste tube comes to mind. Of course, differences run much deeper than that in some instances, yet the basic emotion and commitment put such inconsistencies in the proper place.
Over the past years, I have learned a valuable lesson in forging a strong relationship. If something or some idea won’t be important this time next year, it is totally unworthy of discussion. We tend to put a lot of emphasis on small things, when — in truth and reality — the large things are core.
This year when you pen that card, slip that box of candy across the table to a dear one, or proudly carry those roses home, remember how precious that other person is to you. Happy Valentine’s Day, one and all.