I didn’t receive flowers this Valentine’s Day, but I did roam Central London.

I did come alive when the crisp air touched my cheeks.

I did sip on a glass of Sangiovese for lunch with a brilliant colleague that has become more of a friend.

I did make new friends. I did reconnect with old ones.

I did listen to their stories. I did enter their lives.

I did learn that some were optimistic about love, hoping to receive flowers on this special day.

I did learn that others considered themselves realists and had zero expectations.

I did discover new beautiful heart-wrenching tunes like SOAK’s “Buzzfeed Ohio”.

I did sing along, and out loud, to Coldplay’s “Fix You” with my Uber driver.

I did enjoy Peruvian tapas.

I did step out of my comfort zone.

I did buy a new dress to wear that night.

I didn’t receive flowers this Valentine’s Day. I did fall in love with life, all over again.