Valentine's Day isn't just about heart-shaped candies and rosy sentiments. For many, it's a tightrope walk over memories best left untouched, a day when the past's shadows loom large over the present. Embarking on this episode, I, Micah Bravery, bring forth a candid conversation on the lesser-told story of Valentine's Day—the one that doesn't necessarily glitter with love but rather stirs the remnants of personal trauma. We explore the bittersweet contrast of a holiday that for some, reopens old wounds, and how 'dateless Valentine's' events can offer a haven for those who find the romantic emphasis a challenge to endure.

Trauma, with its insidious ways, has the power to shape our interactions and our very sense of self—something I've learned through both personal battles and those of close friends. As I navigate the deep waters of discussing a friend's trials with singlehood, it becomes evident how vital genuine support is during times that society tells us we should feel our happiest. Taking a closer look at my own dance with cancer and its cruel encore, I share the raw emotions that come with relapse and how resilience can sometimes be more about allowing yourself to feel the lows, as much as celebrating the highs.

Concluding this journey, we touch on the resilience that comes from facing our deepest struggles head-on. From the throes of depression to the rekindling of illness, I discuss the imperative of honoring our unique paths to healing. As we near the day devoted to love, let's refocus that affection inward, granting ourselves the grace to cherish our own hearts first. So, as you navigate the rollercoaster that is Valentine's Day, remember our mantra: count the cost and make the change. Join me in transforming our pains into stepping stones for growth, as we continue to foster a community that understands and heals together.