[Special Episode] Love's Kaleidoscope: Crafting Valentine's Day for Everyone
In this episode, hosts Kerri and L explore the multifaceted landscape of love, drawing inspiration from ancient myths to contemporary relationship dynamics. They begin by reframing Valentine's Day, shifting the focus from traditional romantic notions to encompass love in all its forms, including self-love, friendship, and partnership. Kerri and L discuss the significance of understanding one's love languages and astrological influences, offering practical insights for enhancing communication and connection in relationships. Transitioning to the realm of self-love, the hosts share the empowering story of Oshun from Yoruba-Nigerian mythology. Oshun's narrative serves as a beacon of inspiration, emphasizing the importance of self-care, empowerment, and embracing one's strengths amidst life's challenges. Moving forward into expanding it to our friendships. From there, the discussion shifts to the enchanting tale of Psyche and Eros, exploring the depths of love, trust, and resilience in romantic partnerships. As the episode concludes, Kerri and L offer practical suggestions for celebrating Valentine's Day, whether through quality time with loved ones, acts of service, or thoughtful gestures that resonate with individual love languages. They emphasize the importance of reconnecting in partnerships and fostering meaningful connections that endure beyond romantic clichés. Join Kerri and L on a journey of exploration and discovery as they navigate the intricate terrain of love, weaving together ancient wisdom with modern insights to illuminate the path towards deeper connections and fulfillment in relationships. Sources: Apuleius. The Golden Ass. Translated by E. J. Kenney. London ; New York: Penguin Classics, 1999. Borg, Jr. Ph.D, Mark B., Grant H. Brenner, MD, and Daniel Berry, RN,MHA. “5 Steps to a Better Valentine’s Day | Psychology Today.” Accessed February 14, 2024. https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/irrelationship/201602/5-steps-better-valentines-day. Chapman, Gary. The 5 Love Languages: The Secret to Love That Lasts. Reprint edition. Chicago: Northfield Publishing, 2015. Dietz, S. Theresa. The Complete Language of Flowers: A Definitive and Illustrated History. Illustrated edition. New York, NY: Wellfleet Press, 2020. George, Demetra, and Douglas Bloch MA. Asteroid Goddesses: The Mythology, Psychology, and Astrology of the Re-Emerging Feminine. Revised edition. Berwick, Me: Nicolas-Hays, Inc, 2003. Gielan, Michelle. “Valentine’s Day Survival Guide | Psychology Today.” Accessed February 14, 2024. https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/lights-camera-happiness/201102/valentine-s-day-survival-guide. Henry, Rachel. The Language of Flowers 1810-1816: Delachenaye’s Abecedaire de Flore and Chambet’s Embleme Des Fleurs Translated into English. Sphinx House, 2023. History. “Valentine’s Day 2024: Origins, Background & Traditions.” HISTORY, February 6, 2024. https://www.history.com/topics/valentines-day/history-of-valentines-day-2. Oberlo. “How Much Money Is Spent on Valentine’s Day Every Year?” Accessed February 14, 2024. https://www.oberlo.com/statistics/how-much-money-is-spent-on-valentines-day-every-year. Roux, Jessica. Floriography: An Illustrated Guide to the Victorian Language of Flowers. Kansas City, Missouri: Andrews McMeel Publishing, 2020. Silva, Mari. Oshun: The Ultimate Guide to an Orisha of Yoruba and Santería, the Divine Feminine, and Ifa. Independently published, 2023. Woolfolk, Joanna Martine. The Only Astrology Book You’ll Ever Need. 21st-century ed. ed. Lanham, Md.: Taylor Trade Pub., 2012.