“Galentine’s” parties and “DUMPlings”: The status of romance in America and the surprising path to our best lives

Americans are spending more on Valentine’s Day this year than ever before—a record $25.8 billion. Paradoxically, today is also Ash Wednesday, the first day of Lent. Combining the two days feels a little like holding a birthday party and a funeral at the same time. The one is filled with romance, dining, and chocolates; the other connotes fasting, deprivation, and discipline. In actuality, the two are essential to each other in ways that are transformative for our souls and our culture.About Denison Forum and The Daily ArticleToday's Daily Article was written by Dr. Jim Denison and narrated by Chris Elkins. You can read this article on our website. You may also receive it in your inbox by subscribing to our newsletter.NOTE: Denison Forum is a fully donor-funded nonprofit ministry. To support our calling, please donate today.