Landmines

I think many of us believe Valentine's day to be a fabricated, commercial holiday. Or maybe that's just cynical moi?

Well, whether you agree with me, you think it is an innocuous silly day, or especially if you actually love the celebration of love... it will come as no surprise that the day may be filled with landmines for those grieving.

And, because of the focus (hearts! pink! sparkles!), we likely don't recognize it in our professional lives.

If you have a colleague or client who could be grieving this Valentine's day, I'd encourage you to drop them a note expressing your admiration.

It doesn't have to speak to their potential grief, but even a simple 'I'm thinking of you' or 'I appreciate you' on a day that could be potentially painful may be just what they need to hear.

At best, you're making them feel loved on a tough day filled with landmines, at worst, you're making someone smile on a fabricated, commercial holiday.

(Maybe just skip the heart chocolate and singing balloon-o-grams.)