February 14 is upon us... Valentine's Day.

Okay, I said it! The "V" word.

For those with a partner, a day to look forward to.

For those without, well, just another Hallmark card occasion.

Or is it?

What happened to "Love thyself" or "Be good to yourself"?

Single, unattached people, UNITE!

Okay, you got a card from the parents, a card from grandma, a card from the kids, or, a card from the dog!

Do they really think that makes us feel better?

We smile, we laugh, we think, "Oh, my goodness, my parents are sending me a Valentine's Day card. What's wrong with me?!"

Okay, their intentions are good. And the cards are adorable.

But, please, don't feel sorry for me just 'cause I'm single. It's really not so bad...

No one nagging me, no one cheating on me, no one aggravating me, no one boring me...

All right -- I'll get a little philosophical (because I can)...

You know what? I think that as long as you're happy with yourself, that's what's most important.

I know plenty of women who just can't live with out a man. They're single for literally two minutes and they're on the hunt again. And, if that's what they want -- well, then, that's what's right for them.

Don't get me wrong. I love men too. I love the interaction, I love the romance, and, I love the sex. But, at 45+ (and that's all you need to know), I'd rather be by myself than settle.

I guess it's a personal choice.

This V-Day, I'll steam myself an artichoke, open a nice bottle of wine and listen to Bruce Springsteen or watch a good V-Day movie... like "When Harry Met Sally" or "Must Love Dogs."

Sad? No way!

Try relaxed and content.

I'm thrilled that I can enjoy V-Day, even by myself!

I'm thrilled when I can spend any time by myself -- not running to a meeting, or working, or doing something for someone else.

Years ago, I might not have thought it was possible. But, I believe that being comfortable with who you are is the key.

No matter how much someone else loves you, bottom line... you have to love yourself.

So this V-Day, be good to yourself. Love yourself. You're allowed... at least one day!

Lauren Meister is President of Blissable.com
and writer of the new column, Sex in the 21st C

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