Earlier in the week I read Roland Martin’s commentary, Don’t be my Valentine – CNN.com. It does a nice job of summing up how I feel about Valentine’s Day.

Too many people are pressured because of this “holiday.” If you have a mate, you are pressured to do something extraordinary—especially if you are the man. On the other hand single people—without a significant other—are almost made to feel as outsiders because they don’t have anyone to “celebrate” with.

I consider myself to be a romantic person, but my attitude toward this day—if you love me, treat me special everyday because I will do the same for you. I don’t want to be treated like I’m part of a herd of sheep. I prefer something a little different. Now, for those that choose to celebrate and get into the hype, that’s ok. Maybe it will help keep a local florist in business a little longer in these “recessionary times.”

I have received a few, “Happy Valentine’s Day,” greetings from a few friends today, and responded with a polite,”Thank you,” and returned the greeting to them. So I’m not a complete humbug. The day—like any other—is what you make it.

Whether you spend this day with yourself or with family, friends, or a special someone, remember those you love are special everyday. Keep romance alive all the time.

And, if 1-800-flowers sends me one more freakin’ email I will scream.

Sorry… excuse that little rant.

Have great day everyone!

Our second big loss for the weekend. Wow… my great-grandmother used to say that death came in threes. It’s hard to believe we have to also say good-bye to Isaac Hayes.

According to a CNN report:

Soul singer and arranger Isaac Hayes, who won Grammy awards and an Oscar for the theme from the 1971 action film “Shaft,” has died, sheriff’s officials in Memphis, Tennessee, reported Sunday.

Relatives found Hayes, 65, unconscious in his home next to a still-running treadmill, said Steve Schular, a spokesman for the Shelby County Sheriff’s Department.

Paramedics attempted to revive him and took him to a hospital, where he was pronounced dead shortly after 2 p.m., the sheriff’s department said.

No foul play is suspected, the agency said in a written statement.

Hayes was a longtime songwriter and arranger for Stax Records in Memphis, playing in the studio’s backup band and crafting tunes for artists such as Otis Redding and Sam and Dave in the 1960s.

He released his first solo album in 1967.

In 1971, the theme from “Shaft” became a pop hit and won an Academy Award for best original theme song. The song and the movie score also won Grammy awards for best original score and movie theme.

He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2002.

They say this cat Isaac was a bad mutha… shut your mouth…

Source: cnn.com