The month of February may be the shortest month of the year, but it is full of celebrations. When Carter G. Woodson launched Negro History Week in 1926, he wanted to give African Americans a time when their accomplishments and lives could be honored. Woodson chose the second week in February, as it includes both the birthdays of Frederick Douglas and Abraham Lincoln. Coincidentally, on the second week of February, we also celebrate Valentine’s Day, which is a yearly recognition of romantic love, friendship, and admiration.  Both of these annual celebrations give us a sense of renewed love for self, one another, and culture that revitalizes us for the year to come.  Below are some ways you can strengthen your sense of love:

Safe ways to celebrate Black History Month

This month you can celebrate Black History Month in multiple ways to renew your passion for African American Culture. The NAACP promotes several activities you can do such as reading a book from a Black author, donating to a Black organization, stream a Black cinema film, or even just registering to vote.  These steps can re-energize your sense of Black pride and love.

Self Care for Self Love

Self care, such as a healthy diet, exercise, and stress relief, can be critical to self love. Know that everyone makes mistakes and learning from those mistakes improves your love for self.  Celebrating even the small things and surrounding yourself with supportive people help with your ability to not trigger negative self thoughts.

Love your Neighbor as Yourself

As important as it is to care for self, it is very important to demonstrate this love to others. Matthew 22:37-40: “And he said to him, ‘You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the greatest and first commandment. And the second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” Be supportive, treat others as you would like to be treated, and communication is key to revitalize your love of others.

Red Oak United Methodist Church would like to wish each of you a Happy Black History Month and Valentine’s Day and hope you take this time to love yourself and one another as 1 Corinthians 13:13 states: “And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.”