How wise to interrupt February with Valentine’s Day – an opportunity to brighten these bleak winter days when natural light is in short supply. Often we use this holiday to express our love for others. This year let’s illuminate our own lives with love, light, and laughter.

This poem leads the way.

THE LAUGHING HEART

your life is your life

don't let it be clubbed into dank submission.

be on the watch.

there are ways out.

there is light somewhere.

it may not be much light but it beats the darkness.

be on the watch.

the gods will offer you chances.

know them.

take them.

you can't beat death but

you can beat death in life, sometimes.

and the more often you learn to do it,

the more light there will be.

your life is your life.

know it while you have it.

you are marvelous.

the gods wait to delight in you.

— Charles Bukowski

Be the light of your life.

Happy Valentine's Day.