We Get It – You Hate February 14th!

Seriously though. Where did all this hatred for Valentine’s Day come from!? Is it because you’re single? Is it because you’re cheap? Is it because you’re cynical? Is it because you hate chocolate (if this is the case, then you have a bigger issue)?

I’ve already written my thoughts about Valentine’s Day and since 2 years ago, my thoughts have stayed the same, but for those of you who are new and don’t feel like clicking the embedded link (I know, I know–the struggle is real, am I right…?), I like Valentine’s Day. I like that there is a day out of the year that reminds us to take a moment and appreciate the people in our lives.

---

Have people just lost sight as to the meaning of the holiday or have they just become jaded? Whatever the case, here are some counter points to some complaints I’ve seen about why Valentine’s Day sucks.

“It’s one of those holidays that are made for consumers.”

On the contrary, historically speaking Valentine’s Day became a day of remembrance after Valentine (a priest) was beheaded at the demand of Emperor Claudius II of Rome because he continued to preform weddings of young soldiers to their sweethearts after Claudius outlawed marriages in the hopes of building a massive [unloved] army. As for present day, sure ‘greeting card’ companies have exploited the holiday to turn a profit, but that is what businesses do! It’s nothing new.

“… you’ll be getting yourself into debt forking out for a bit of bling to show your significant other how you feel about them…”

Not only is this not necessary, it’s absurd. Going into debt for someone on any day of the year (yes, including Christmas) is completely bonkers. If you feel like spending a bit of money on something special in the hopes of making your loved one smile is just fine, but again-not necessary.

My husband and I have a tradition for Valentine’s Day and it doesn’t cost a thing:

1. Go to a store together that has a greeting card aisle
2. Pick out cards to exchange
3. Trade cards in store
4. Leave without purchasing said cards

We already traded cards this year and this was the result:

We’re obviously a perfect match. 🙂

Another fun way to show appreciation is to write down a dozen or so cheesy pickup lines on post-it notes and stick them around the house. This is a sure-fire way to bring that dopey grin to your spouse’s face–I guarantee it!

This year we’ve decided to have a movie night-in. I’m in charge of dinner; he’s in charge of dessert. I’m surprising him with pizza roses which automatically makes me the best wife in the world!

“… every day should be treated like Valentine’s Day”

True, but is it? In any relationship on any given day you should show the other that they are loved, wanted, appreciated, adored, cherished, worthy, et al, without question or suggestion, but do we? If you’re someone who gushes affirmations to others 100% of the time, good on you! For the rest of us, it’s not everyday you have the thought: I really care about this person and they deserve to know it. In our day-to-day lives, we become habitual with our love (which is not a bad thing–it just happens). That’s what makes Valentine’s Day so special; it forces people to slow down from their every day grind, break out of their routine, and acknowledge the people they care for, even if it is an internal acknowledgement.

“… you’ll find yourself sad and alone…”

Just because you’re not tied to a love interest doesn’t mean today’s gonna suck. Do you have a best friend? Are you close with your mom? Do you have a pet? Hell! Do you care even just a little about your damn self!? Put your energy and love into something/someone that means something to you whether that’s asking your bestie to be your Valentine, hugging your momma, buying your fur baby a new toy or treat, or treating yourself to a mani/pedi and a venti something-or-other instead of a tall or a good ol’ fashion bubble bath with dish soap if you’re cheap. Love comes in all varieties, so don’t knock the whole concept just because you’re feeling down about your relationship status. Plus, you have to love yourself before you can love someone else, am I right?

* These quotes have been pulled from posts (some taken out of context) written by English Rosiee, Sage Petersen, and Jamal. My responses to such quotes are in no way an attack on their thoughts/feelings; just responses to such thoughts/feelings.