While shopping the other day, I ran into a friend. He told me that he'd recently ended a relationship with his girlfriend. He noticed that I had bought a box a valentine cards and said sadly, "Once again, I'll be staying home this Valentine's Day!" Not exactly knowing what to say, I told him I was sorry about the break up and then we went our separate ways.

By the time I got home, I realized I was furious at myself and at Valentine's Day. This man has great friends and a very loving family. Yet, on Valentine's Day he planned to be alone. Why? He didn't have a girlfriend.

It made me angry that he would be alone just because he's single. Personally, I think Valentine's Day discriminates against singles! The majority of the marketing blitz for it emphasizes being in a love relationship with a partner. The message is that if you're single, then you might as well forget Valentine's Day.

Wait a minute. What's wrong with being single? Think about it. I've thought about it and it makes me wish I could repeat that conversation with my friend. If I could, here's what I might have suggested to him:

WRITE YOURSELF A VALENTINE.

Buy or make a valentine. Inside it write things you like about yourself and what makes you special. But don't stop there, take the next step and mail this valentine to yourself. If Valentine's Day is about love, then why not express the love you have for who you are and the person you've become. This is something you can do by yourself and for yourself.

SEND FLOWERS TO YOURSELF

Okay, I know some of you are thinking that this is a selfish thing to do. But if you enjoy flowers, why shouldn't you give them to yourself? Let them remind you of what you have accomplished or what you plan to accomplish in this coming year. If not flowers, then send yourself a different gift as a reminder that you ARE loved.

CELEBRATE VALENTINE'S DAY WITH FAMILY OR FRIENDS.

What's so important about having a partner, when you have supportive family members and/or friends who love you? Get together with the people who are important to you. Perhaps have a dinner or a picnic. Whatever gathering you plan, take time to tell each person why they are special to you. Then, let them tell YOU why you are so special. That's sharing love.

DO SOMETHING THAT MAKES YOU FEEL GOOD.

Think about what would make you feel good on Valentine's Day. You might take your dog for a nice run in the park, surprise a lonely neighbor with a valentine, fix a favorite dinner and eat by candlelight or get in touch with an old friend. Doing something good for yourself or someone else is a wonderful expression of love and a great way to celebrate Valentine's Day.

I missed my opportunity with my friend, but I get a second chance with those of you reading this article. Don't dread Valentine's Day if you're single. Remember that love is more than just being a couple. Sure it's nice to be with someone special, but if you're not, it doesn't mean you don't have loving relationships.

This Valentine's Day pay tribute to love. Celebrate the love of whomever gives you support; your family, your friends, your pet or even yourself!