Every year at the beginning of February a great deal of preparation begins for just one day. After finding that temporary match made in heaven, you spend unnecessary money on frivolous items: stuffed animals, sugary confectionaries, shiny balloons, flowers and Hallmark cards. In fact, people spend so much money on superficial gifts that the profit made off of consumers for one day could save a Third World Country.
According to the National Retail Federation, 2006 holiday spending by consumers on Valentine’s Day reached $13.7 billion dollars, second only to winter holidays. This year the profit created by consumers is projected to reach $16.9 billion.
Is this not an astronomical figure, or have I lost my mind?
I have no desire for these things. I’m allergic to chocolate, flowers upset my allergies and I don’t believe I’ve ever taken the time to validate my relationships by the amount of money someone spent on me for one day.
So although that “special day” for love, hearts and candy has come and gone, it never really mattered anyway. For me it’s the simple things that matter the most. Send me a free e-card, cook me some tofu or anything that could possibly be more useful and meaningful than the predictable gift.
If it’s just the thought that counts, then go the economical route because saving money for something worthwhile is sweeter than anything I know.
Yewande Addie for the Editorial Board.