Article by Peter Ongera
In the present Artificial Intelligence, socio-economic and political climate, Valentine’s Day celebrations ought to be more meaningful and longer lasting than the traditional dates, flowers and chocolate.
Here are some creative ways to express your love to various members of society:
War and disaster
The war in Ukraine and earthquakes in Turkey and Syria have left us with deaths, casualties and destruction that require our love, prayers and blessings. Love is the presence of peace and absence of war.
Politicians
It is high time our politicians and governments showed us love by not making empty promises, paying taxes and dealing with all corruption claims and scandals decisively. Our leaders’ lack of love is responsible for the elusiveness of our countries’ prosperity and development. Let us hope they are not cooking any scams this Valentine’s Day. Let’s us all remember not to spread false information and fake news on social and mainstream media.
Hunger and famine
With the ongoing food crisis and crop failure due to climate change and economic policies, starving families and livestock do not need over-priced red roses, cards, chocolates, wines and other gift items. All they need is food and feed to prevent malnutrition and death. Donate food, feed or cash to buy food and feed. Buy someone some vegetables, fodder and flour instead of flowers and chocolate.
HIV/AIDS and COVID-19
If you love yourself and your significant other, know your HIV status. The virus and disease are with us and millions of affected or infected people need affection. Let’s not forget that all of us have been either affected or infected with the coronavirus or both. Let us all accept and love each other by stopping the spread of the disease by observing all the health protocols.
Parents and Children
Children and parents are encouraged to exchange messages to emphasize their strong bonds of love. Family counsellors advise parents to initiate the exchange of messages to help their children understand family love. Gifts of kindness, compassion, respect and thoughtfulness teach children that love means much more than three words (I love you) inscribed on the gifts. It is important to help children express affection and friendship in ways that transcend materialism. I remember that it’s on Valentine’s day in 1998 when I proposed to marry my wife. Looking back, we are a lovely couple and family of three.
Mother Nature
Our lifestyles are destroying natural resources and emitting green house gases. Yes, we are responsible for climate change and global warming which threaten our own existence. Let us show love to Mother Nature by going green-living an eco-friendly lifestyle with least negative impacts on the environment. After plucking those roses, plant some more and other trees.
