I’ve never been overly opinionated about Valentine’s Day.
Whether single or in a relationship when February 14th rolls around, I’ve never been one to put a lot of weight on chocolates and teddy bears. You’ll never see me post a gushy Facebook status, or rant about “Single Awareness Day”. It’s just not how I’m wired.
This year, however, was unique.
Last night, in the midst of first dates and last minute reservations, I spent the evening with a girl who had been rescued just three days prior.
She was waiting for a bed to open up in one of our safe houses, and in waiting had spent the past three days alone in the hotel room provided for her.
When I was asked to consider taking her out to dinner so she didn’t have to spend another night alone, it was the easiest yes I’ve ever said. What better way could there be to spend a day dedicated to love?
When my friend and I arrived at the hotel to pick her up, I admit I was a little nervous. But after only a few minutes with this amazing young woman it was as if we had been friends all of our lives.
We spent the night eating Greek food, laughing and sharing stories. She showed us pictures of her son and about halfway through our meal, she began to open up about her life and what had brought her to this point.
I won’t go into detail, but I can say with certainty that if I had experienced half of what she’s been through, I don’t know that I would have made it.
While sharing her story, she said something that particularly resonated within me. She said, “If it wasn’t for God, I wouldn’t be here. I know that. Even at my lowest, when I’ve thought about ending everything, thanking Him is what’s always kept me going. I just thank God for what I do have. He’s my only constant and He’s never abandoned me.”
Entering into my time here in Atlanta, I had no idea that I would be blessed day after day with such beautiful examples of what true love really looks like.
I never dreamed that I would get to sit across from a woman who has been to hell and back, and that she would remind me that, even in the places where I least expect it, love still shines through.
And that’s a love truly worth celebrating.
