As Valentine’s Day approaches the only related thing I’ve done was buying some Valentine’s socks at the dollar store. That wasn’t for Valentine’s Day though; it was more because they were pink with cute little hearts on them- and they were only $1. No, I don’t generally do much for Valentine’s Day. I find it a bit nauseating how store shelves change from red and green to pink and red immediately after Christmas. After all, it is truly about commercialism. There’s nothing romantic, sweet or sexy about that.
I guess I have mixed feelings about Valentine’s Day. On one hand I don’t think much of it because it’s so commercialized and many times the gifts that are given are given out of obligation and not out of sincerity or love. On the other hand, most holidays are commercialized. I suppose that’s the world we live in. Christmas certainly is with all the emphasis placed on shopping from black Friday to stores being open on Christmas day. All of that is lost on me though as I stopped the doing all that Christmas shopping years ago. Although the commercialism of the season turns me off, I don’t let it stop me from celebrating the birth of Jesus and the real reason for season. And even though the Martin Luther King holiday is just “a day off” to many people, I still recognize the significance of that day. So, maybe all the commercial Valentine’s hype shouldn’t stop the celebration of true love either.
Also, any day set aside or reason to celebrate love is a good one to me. I wouldn’t tell anyone not to express their love for their loved ones on Valentine’s Day if that’s what they want to do. I just hope that’s not the only day it’s done. Love should be expressed, celebrated and cherished 365 days a year. Wives, girlfriends and significant others should not expect anything different on Valentine’s Day. However, I don’t advise guys to break tradition if you know it’s important to your lady without discussing it first.
When I was growing up my dad sent my mom a dozen red roses every year for Valentine’s Day (and her birthday). I think they probably went to dinner and she bought herself a gift from him. But the whole red roses every year thing got to be a little tired and obligatory to me. I’m all for tradition but not when there’s no meaning or sincerity behind it.
If you want to recognize Valentine’s Day and celebrate your love, why not try something a little different this year? Get each other gifts that does not cost any money or involve going to buy something at a store. Make something. Cook a meal. Give a massage. Write a poem or love letter. Design a card. Do his/her favorite activity. Slow dance. Go on a picnic… in the living room…by candlelight.
Save the flowers, candy and stuffed bears for the other 364 days of the year that they are not expected. Live and love outside of the box.
One Response to “My Obligatory Valentine”