Call me Scrooge – or whatever the equivalent is when one dislikes a holiday that is, by its nature, exclusionary. For those people unpartnered, it’s a day filled with reminders of how you’re not the expected norm. For those who are partnered, it’s nothing more than guilt/shame/agony wrapped up in spending money on stupid heart-shaped crap.
Yeah, I really, really hate it. Did even when I was partnered.
Why is there a day to (supposedly) celebrate romantic love? Shouldn’t that be every day? Perhaps I’m jaded, but a ridiculously expensive box of candy isn’t going to signify that you love your partner more or less than yesterday or tomorrow. Buying a gift because it’s expected is less meaningful than an obligatory dental visit.
Why not pick a random day a month to do something special for your loved ones – not just romantic love, but anyone you consider family. Send a fun note, a card, post something mushy on their Facebook wall. Unexpected acts of kindness and love seem more special.
I don’t begrudge florists their revenue today, but I do hate the artificiality behind it. Same with Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, etc. Material goods don’t say “I love you” – everyday actions do.
I’m going to spend today trying to ignore/avoid the hype. Yeah, I’m a grumpy mcgrumpypants. That’s how I roll. Maybe tomorrow will be better. Oh wait, then I’ll have to look at early Easter displays. At least there will be Cadbury Mini Eggs.
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I’m not crazy about Valentine’s Day, either. It’s not so much that I’m single (although I am), because some of my worst Valentine’s Days have been when I was seeing someone–too much pressure. I just hate the materialism, and the fact that all the commercials promote the worst kind of gender stereotyping. Plus it seems like it would be much more romantic for a couple to celebrate the days that are important to them and only them, rather than having society tell them “it’s time to celebrate your romance now.”
Hope you had a better day than you expected!
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I understand Though I am not single Valentines day is not a big breehaha for us. I purchased a $1.00 box of chocolates and called it good
Sotty it brings you icky feeling. I agree you should show your affection for those your care about often and on the fly Not just because the calender tells you its time. Love your books by the way!!!! Have an awesome day!