The Cupid Crew Challenge

Valentine’s Day. Love it or leave it?

Do you acknowledge it? Celebrate it? Skip it?

Do you buy yourself a box of chocolates, send vibrantly coloured notes to your cherished circle of friends, or hustle for the most desirable venue booking for a fancy meal with your partner?

I love the fact that Valentine’s Day has become a day to celebrate friendship and family as well as romantic couplings.

However, Valentine’s may amplify feelings of isolation and loneliness. And for seniors who live on their own, the day, the week, the time leading up to the 14th, can be a brutal reminder of loss. Loss of a spouse. Loss of their friends. Loss of their independent ability to get out and about to make basic social connections.

The health effects of social isolation and loneliness have been purported to be as devastating as smoking or obesity.

My Dad, Lloyd, always had some sweet way of reaffirming that he had picked his one true love to journey through life. This year is his second Valentine’s Day without Mom.

My Dad is a widower. He lives on his own in a small village. Desperately clinging to his independence.

The village librarian recently hosted a card crafting project with children from the area. Valentine’s Day cards were then distributed last week to the seniors who participate in ‘Coffee Time’ at the community centre on Wednesday mornings. My father’s card is proudly sitting in what would be considered prime real estate in his home. It brings a huge smile to his face, and he loves to share the story as to how it came to be.

Today is Valentine’s Day Eve. There is still time to jump to action and be an extension of the ‘Cupid Crew’ – an actual organization that enrolls young people to create Valentine’s Day cards for seniors. A simple act. With the potential for a profound impact. A physical card that shows craft and care. That someone is thinking of them.

Remember your seniors this Valentine’s Day. Drop off a card to your neighbour. Call to reminisce. Send a note that highlights you are thinking of them. Buy a puzzle and spend some time completing it with them.

I hereby appoint y’all as honourary Cupids. ?