I have been a single mom now for 16 years and I have learned so much from those years of dating.

I have learned that it doesn’t matter what kind of car the man drives. If he is white trash he will not notice that you are a gem.

I have learned that if I date a gentleman he will still be a gentleman if I decide that the relationship is not what I want long term.

Thank you to my ex-boyfriends who have transitioned into so many of my friends. You are all awesome!

I have learned that if you tolerate a man acting like a fool and exploding with anger at frequent intervals they will continue to act like a two year old. As a former pastor said, “You have what you tolerate in life.”

I have learned that my happiness is important. If a man is asking me to abandon my dreams to follow his, then he is just selfish and not worth my time.

I have learned that if a man is addicted to alcohol or cigarettes, that toxicity seeps out of his pores and into mine in more ways than I can count.

I have learned that love is just a word and a very empty and meaningless word if not followed by actions and attitude.

I have learned that I have an obligation to pursue my own happiness whether in or out of a relationship. My happiness is my responsibility and not dependent on anyone else.

I have learned that to jump into bed on the first date is to act like an animal and not a human.

I have learned that there is nothing that can torpedo a relationship into failure as quickly as premarital sex can.

I have learned that when I do have premarital sex the lines get blurry as to what is acceptable and what is not in a relationship. The compromises I have made when giving in to sexual pressure sicken me.

I have learned that when you allow sin into a relationship, God still adores you, but he will not stop the consequences of the sin.

I have learned that God understands women and most of the commandments regarding sex were written to protect the woman. He understands that women view sex as an act of love, most men view it as a physical release.

I have learned that to go on a date without the spirit of God is just not any fun at all.

I have learned that although most men fall for me, not a one of them would sacrifice His son on a cross to die for all of the crap I have done in my life.

Of all of the boyfriends and dates I have encountered, I have had a good time with most.

One date supersedes them all and that was a day date I had with God.

This next year I am going to try to invite him along every day and see what fun we have.

He is the best.

Have a wonderful Valentines day!

In my desire to celebrate the day of love I have decided to humbly attempt poetry. I know there are much better poets in the blogging world than me, but at least I gave it a shot. Read on!

I am going out with friends tonight

I hope you are doing all right,

I hope your day is filled with hugs and kisses

and I hope there is no one your heart misses

If you have no one to kiss

please remember this

I hope you know deep down inside

love will someday be a fantastic ride.

So here is a kiss and a hug coming your way

and I hope you have a fantastic Valentines day!!!