Valentine's Day can be a sad day for those in nursing homes and assisted living homes. Many seniors in these homes have lost loved ones and spouses. The facilities try their best to make it a pleasant day for them, but nothing can compare to a soft caress to the hair or a gentle word to break the silence of the world that many of these folks spend much of their day in. They remember the romance of days gone by. Many of them live in the past because their short term memories are no longer functioning properly. Perhaps this is a blessing in disguise, for memories of days gone by may be a more pleasant affair than the poignant reality of today. Forget the peignoir, the champagne and the suite at the fancy hotel, and stop to remind yourself that their are several definitions of the word love. Why not bring a rainbow of color and warmth into a blustering February day for a lonely person in a nursing home somewhere. Hot melted chocolate, a warm afghan with hearts, your time to read a spiritual and uplifting poem or short story to them could make a memorable Valentine's Day for you and them. Check with the social worker at a nursing home or assisted living home near you, and I bet you will find many in need of your special Valentine's gift.

God bless you, and Happy Valentine's Day.

� Phyllis Ann ([email protected])