"Tis better to have loved and lost than never to have loved at all." – Alfred Lord Tennyson
Several years ago, on Valentine’s Day, I happened to look up and see the above-pictured sentiment written in the sky. These words, like Cupid’s arrow, pierce hearts like none other. Moments later, this message of devotion dissolved into the blue, and I was reminded of how transient love can be. Every Valentine’s Day I remember the people who once told me “I love you”, people who are now lost to time or circumstance: my mother … my father … former girlfriends … all gone with the wind. But when love is lost, all is not. The experience of love helps sort out what’s important.
“If we love our country, we should also love our countrymen.” – President Ronald Reagan
Love of Country - Most Americans profess love for the U.S. of A. But nowadays, many seem to have forgotten the “United” part. Considering that our country consists of millions of people, each with various beliefs and preferences, there is no single version of America that can possibly suit everyone. And thankfully, there is no single American who can decide an election, so you can safely ignore your crazy neighbor’s rants. In order to maintain the union, our options as citizens are: understand the issues, have reasonable expectations, understand the need for compromise, contact or support elected representatives, vote, or run for office. That’s about it. Armed insurrections are for banana-republic caudillos. As for sitting around soaking up media-generated fear and hate, that will never make America great.
“Of all possessions, a friend is most precious.” – Herodotus
Love of Things – “I love it!’” exclaims the owner of a new subway-tile backsplash in the kitchen, the new Mercedes in the driveway, or the 401(k) hitting seven figures. Thrills like this are part of the human experience. In fact, consumption of goods and services makes up almost 70% of the economy. But try this Twilight Zone mind game: imagine if you will (Rod Serling voice-over) … living in a world without other people. You could go into any bank and walk out with all the money you can carry; enter your favorite dealership and drive off with the car of your choice; live in any house you desire; and on and on. But the question arises: if you’re all alone in the world, does anything have meaning or value? Where’s the love?
“Happiness is mainly two things … what we do during the day, and who we come home to at night.” - Janan Ganesh
Love of People – Compared with possessions, nothing lights up the heart like spending time with someone special, holding a hand, receiving a big hug or kiss, or hearing “I love you”. Valentine’s Day is one day in the year that celebrates the best of human emotions. Why not share the love every day? It’ll make you feel pretty good, and some just might come your way.
“If you want love and abundance in your life, give it away.” – Mark Twain
Copyright © 2022 - Any opinions are those of James Aldendifer and not necessarily those of RJFS or Raymond James. The information contained in this report does not purport to be a complete description of the securities, markets, or developments referred to in this material. Investing
