Valentine’s Day often gets a bad rap. Many people see it as just a ploy for card companies to sell more products. They argue it’s overly commercial and feels forced. But, let’s take a moment to think about it differently. What if, despite its flaws, it’s also a nice way to show love?
This holiday can stir up a lot of emotions. Some folks dread it. They feel pressure from ads and worry they won’t measure up to expectations. But maybe that’s missing the point. It’s easy to focus on our own feelings of loneliness. Instead, we could see this day as a chance to spread joy and appreciation for those we care about.
Sure, critics argue that it’s just a made-up holiday. But let’s be real—most holidays have some odd origins. Birthdays, for example, aren’t about celebrating the exact day of someone’s birth. And isn’t life full of things we create meaning around, like birthdays or holidays? We shape them to fit our lives.
And yes, it’s commercialized. So is almost everything in our world. But why not take it as an opportunity to express our feelings without relying solely on buying gifts? We can find unique ways to celebrate love that don’t come with a price tag. It’s about the connection, not the cost.
Then we have the folks who insist, “We don’t need a special day; we celebrate love every day.” Good for you! But let’s not forget that life gets hectic. A day dedicated to love can remind us to pause and appreciate the important people in our lives. It can be a refreshing break from our routines.
Valentine’s Day doesn’t have to mean roses or fancy dinners. It can be about genuine gestures, no matter how small. In recent years, celebrations like “Galentine’s Day” have taken off, where friends celebrate each other. This is a heartwarming way to express gratitude and kindness that transcends romance.
In a world often clouded with negativity, having a day solely focused on love feels like a breath of fresh air. It’s a moment to say, “I appreciate you.” Whether through a simple note, a heartfelt message, or spending time together, we can make this day special.
For me, I’m fortunate to have love in my life, which makes every day feel bright. I remember times when I felt lonely, looking in at happy couples. Now, I cherish the love I have and believe it deserves a day to shine.
So, as I ponder this, I wonder—does writing this article count as a gift or do I still need to grab a little something special?
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James Colley is a comedy writer from Sydney. His debut novel, The Next Big Thing, is out now.
