Saint Valentine’s day often referred to as “Valentine’s day” or simply “Val’s day” has over the years become an important day for many lovers worldwide.
Celebrated on the 14th day of February each year, this celebration of love is believed to have originated from the Roman holiday Lupercalia and dates back to the 5th century. Valentine’s Day is named after a Christian martyr named Saint Valentine and is a day where many people exchange cards, candy, gifts, chocolate, or flowers with their special “valentine”.
Although the actual truth behind Valentine’s story is still unclear, all the stories simply highlight his appeal as a sympathetic, loving, and romantic figure. Over the years, this day has been celebrated by many lovers and couples whether married or in a relationship. However, the true relevance of the day has been overshadowed somewhat by the immense sexual aura affiliated with the day. The question still remains: Is Valentine’s day hype or a necessity?
In the not too distant past, Valentine’s day was celebrated in a soft, quiet, and very modest manner. Many couples or lovers spend a substantial amount of time with their “valentine” or lover. This was mainly in a setting of intimacy, love, affection, reflections, and rejuvenation of broken relationships. Couples would talk over a bottle of wine and some good food at home and exchange small gifts.
This way of celebration has recently been modified in recent years. Celebrations have become a more sophisticated and extravagant show of wealth, rather than love. In recent years, many lovers are more concerned with where their partners will take them on that day. Whether it is a full weekend in a luxurious hotel or resort or a fully packed package of a candlelight dinner, massage, and party.
Over time, the main focus of Valentine’s day has gradually shifted from the show of love to the show of wealth. This is further augmented by the wrong notion that lavish spending actually proves the worth of love. Moreover, expensive gifts varying from giant teddy bears, to fancy cars, and jewellery are now the main side attractions of this day. Failure by one to provide these things poses a great threat to his or her relationship.
Many people argue that this trend is not binding and that many people actually still spend valentine’s day in the old-fashioned yet very modest way. The fact of the matter is, do we actually need this day? If yes, is it necessary to go through the stress and strain just to match up to changing trends even if you cannot afford it? Is it really necessary? Can’t we show love without all of the noise and spending?
A lot more believe that valentine’s day is now mere hype which is just a day’s show of spending and lavishness after which several relationships break anyways. The challenge here is being able to draw a fine line between showing love and spoiling your lover with gifts. It is true that lavish spending can be a true show of love. However, it is also true that the spending can also be a show of nothing or an attempt to please your partner, his/her family and friends. What plans have you made for valentine’s day? Especially amidst a global pandemic?
With the current restrictions on movement, you could use the day for sober reflection on what true love is, and how we can make the most of the opportunities we get to show love to others.
Whatever way one chooses to express love, the mind-blowing question still remains unanswered; IS VALENTINE’S DAY A HYPE OR A NECESSITY?
Credit: Jovago.com
