Call me unromantic, but Valentine’s Day has become ridiculously over-commercialized in the new millennium. Traditionally celebrated on February 14th, the holiday celebrates all things love and romance. The day of love has become a multi-billion industry in the United States. This year, the holiday falls in the middle of our global pandemic, which has wreaked havoc with our mail system. Some people are still waiting for Christmas card deliveries, so the tradition of sending cards, flowers, or chocolate in the mail may not be feasible. The traditional dinner and a movie is not an option, either, as almost all theaters are closed and many restaurants are take-out only. For both the coupled and single, this year’s outlook appears dim.
According to legend, Valentine’s Day originated with Saint Valentine of Rome, a saint who authorized marriages in order for them to be legalized. Today, the holiday is associated with spoiling your loved ones, specifically by spending money on candy, experiences, and gifts. The transformation of Valentine’s Day to one that focuses on consumerism rather than love taints American culture because it can make relationships feel disingenuous and materialistic. To buy gifts for yourself or loved ones because of holiday pressure is reflective of the belief that spending money is essential to expressing love. Businesses take advantage of customers’ fears and loft their prices higher. These days, people almost expect elaborate gifts for the holiday, which can put a strain on their relationship if a partner’s expectations are not met.
Fortunately, love languages have recently grown in popularity and have become mainstream. The five love languages are Words of Affirmation, Physical Touch, Receiving Gifts, Quality Time, and Acts of Service. The concept of catering to your loved one’s love language especially aids our society today, which tends to focus more on hook-ups and commitment issues than selfless love and emotional vulnerability. Knowing your love language gives you the communication and understanding to explain what’s most important to meet your and your loved one’s emotional needs.
Knowing your partner’s love language is beneficial this love holiday season because you can better cater and personalize this holiday to them. If you are dating (or talking to) someone who does not know what to do with big expensive gifts but loves words of affirmation or quality time, maybe a sweet letter or thoughtful date would be better for them. If you know your loved one loves to receive gifts, go big with the cheesy big teddy bear and box of chocolates.
This Valentine’s Day, forget consumerism, stress, and unrealistic expectations. Instead, personalize to your loved one’s love language for a fun and unforgettable holiday. You never see your memories at Goodwill. And, for my singles out there, do not forget about Cheap Chocolate Day, February 15th.
