"Don't worry dear," they say, patting me on the shoulder. "You're young and beautiful. You'll probably have a Valentine by next year." Secretly (or not) most of these people are pitying me for not being able to experience the best parts of the holiday. They'd be wrong in thinking I don't have a grand time celebrating because I have plenty of chocolate and valentines and (platonic) love and flowers (which I buy for myself the day after when they go on sale). However, I'm not dancing in the moonlight in the arms of a tall dark handsome Valentine. I'm not riding off into the sunset, eating bon-bons, or whispering sweet nothings into a manly ear. As far as Valentine's Days go, they can only think about how much I'm missing out.
Likewise, I know people who aren't that religious. I know I'd be wrong thinking they aren't having a grand time celebrating because they have plenty of chocolate and dyed Easter eggs and loved ones nearby. However, they're missing out on the best part. The glory of Jesus Christ's triumph over the grave for all mankind, the refining peace and joy of His atonement, the companionship of the Holy Spirit: The knowledge of the gospel of Jesus Christ makes this holiday.
Its like discovering that your friend is eating a hollow nestle chocolate bunny. Meanwhile you have a handcrafted solid rabbit of fine European chocolate. Sweet as their Easter may be, you wish they could really experience Easter...
Good thoughts.
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