DEAR ABBY: This time last year, I read a letter from a young woman whose live-in boyfriend doesn't get her anything for Valentine's Day.
I have been married to my husband for 28 years. When we were first married, I was often disappointed because he was never good at getting me gifts on holidays. Every year I would remind him ahead of time.
But gradually over the years, I began to realize that the gifts were not important. He has been the best husband I could ask for. He knows me better than anyone else. He adopted my two young girls and has been a wonderful father to them.
Throughout the year we do almost everything together. He loves to shop with me, and I buy what I want for my birthday or whatever. When holidays come around, we acknowledge them to each other and do something together for the day if we can.
A few years ago he was very ill and almost died. I am so grateful for him every day. I couldn't ask for more. The material gifts are unimportant. -- MARY M. IN MINNESOTA
DEAR MARY: Thank you for an upper of a letter. You are a woman who clearly has her priorities straight. I told the young woman who wrote that letter that she'd feel less "deprived" if she focused not on what she isn't getting out of the relationship, but more on what she is. You reinforced this beautifully.
Readers, on this "day of love," I'd like you to know that you make writing this column a joy. I wish you all a very happy Valentine's Day.