As Valentine’s Day approaches, I coo at the advertisements on social media of the giant stuffed bears, the chocolate covered strawberries, the rose detailed jewelry… What makes it even better is watching the couples surprise each other with these gifts. Nothing warms the heart more than seeing others in the midst of a kind gesture. And like most girls I know, these are things we are geared to look forward to and desire. Growing up, we watch our grandparents, parents, and friends show tokens of their love for their significant others and pine after our own love stories. I remember having this idea of being in a relationship and cutely being brought flowers and chocolates, being invited to a fancy dinner with my prospective boyfriend. I fantasized about wearing a beautiful red dress in the spirit of the holiday, taking pictures that I could look back on to remember one of the happiest and most romantic days of my life.
And now at the ripe age of 20, for the first time in my life, I may have the Valentine’s Day every girl dreams of: the scattered rose petals, romantic dinner, bouquet of colorful flowers. Yet, I cringe at the thought of having to fake my surprise and excitement at being asked out or being given a gift. I can’t keep flowers alive for more than 3 days, I don’t want them! I hate chocolate. As much as I once fantasized that Valentine’s Day would be amazing when my time came, it doesn’t have any of the appeal it once had.
I don’t swoon at romantic gestures and would very much rather be in my bed with nachos instead of at a restaurant wearing uncomfortable heels and making small talk over a pricey dinner – what’s wrong with me? Why don’t I respond with squeals and blushing at the idea of doing something dreamy with someone I like? The answer is nothing is wrong with me, and my feelings are valid.
Enjoying a lazy day in with your significant other is just as meaningful as celebrating a holiday dedicated to love. Every day should be about love; it should be shown and given often, not just because the media says February 14th is the day to do it.
So here’s what I have to say to Valentine’s Day: Keep your flowers! Keep your chocolate! I don’t want lobster! We can hang out tomorrow! But thank you for thinking of me!