There are some arguments I can get behind for hating Valentine’s Day. I can totally understand that it is an over-commercialized holiday that reminds singles that they are alone and forces people in relationships to buy overpriced flowers and expensive gifts for one another. Despite all the negative press and the groans I hear when I mention Cupid’s favourite day, I am an advocate for Valentine’s Day. Before you huck your computer at the wall and stop reading, just hear me out.
I have always thought as Valentine’s Day as a day where you can show the important people in your life you care about them. The reason I love Valentine’s Day is much like the reason I love Christmas time. Christmas time is a chance to spend time with family and friends and eat ridiculous amounts of sweets. Getting back on track Valentine’s Day should not be a day that is spent feeling sorry for yourself. As a child, I remember enjoying this special day. I would prepare Valentine’s Day cards to hand out to all the children in my class and craft a special pouch to store the ones I received. When the special day rolled around, my mom would make us heart shaped pancakes with strawberries and throw a surprise chocolate in our lunch. I looked forward to the special treatment every year.
All relationships need maintaining, romantic or otherwise. As adults, these little gestures are a less frequent occurrence. It should be a priority, to make the people in your life feel appreciated all the time, but with the hustle and bustle of life it is easy to forget. Valentine’s Day is a nice reminder. Instead of wallowing in self-pity, it is a good opportunity to brighten someone’s day. A card, chocolate treat or even a well overdue phone call are all nice reminders.
Happiness is not something ready made. It comes from your own actions.-Dalai Lama
Don’t let Valentine’s Day be a couples’ holiday, it should be a holiday where you spread good feelings and remind the people in your life you care about them. An added bonus, tomorrow is half price candy day!
