Valentine’s Day is coming up this Saturday. Couples will express their undying love for one another, some will feel lonely and depressed or some will see Valentine’s Day as just another ordinary day.
Thousands of roses, cards and candy will be purchased and restaurants will be packed. According to StatisticsBrain.com approximately $13.2 billion is spent annually and the average person will spend about $116.21 on this day alone.
I hate to admit this, but I have never been a fan of this holiday. It places too much emphasis on romantic love instead of the everyday love for oneself, friends, family and even strangers.
Valentine’s Day has always been a sore spot for me because it reminds me of the times when I did not have that special someone in my life. I would get sideway looks from some of my friends because I was the only one who did not receive a gift. Even some of my co-workers and complete strangers would ask me if there was anything wrong with me, as if not receiving roses or candy was my fault or a reason to be ashamed.
Why as a society do we focus so much on having romantic relationships? When was the last time someone said “I love you” to a friend, to a family member or to ourselves? Why not celebrate loving life and others instead of having a pity party on not being attached romantically.
On Valentine’s Day, instead of feeling lonely and sorry for myself, two of my best friends and I are going out to celebrate being loved by each other. I am not going to dwell on the things that I do not have but will focus on what I do have for Valentine’s Day: God, family and friends.