Many of my friends have been asking me what is an appropriate gift to give to a boyfriend on Valentine’s Day, but to be honest, I haven’t been in a (stable) relationship on Valentine’s Day since I got a crusty teddy bear in fifth grade at a tacky carnival. I have been anxiously anticipating spending a romantic Valentine’s Day with my boyfriend this year and anxiously anticipating what date-like activities, gifts, etc. that may or may not include. Like many other collegiate girls, I often use the phrase “I literally have the best boyfriend ever!” to exclaim my happiness in my current partnership. This statement is said purely for my joy, for no one really can relate, except to roll his or her eyes.
I’ve spent the last week wondering what my roses will look like, how big my teddy bear will be, and what over-priced restaurant he’ll choose so I can stuff my face with pasta. I struggled to think of a gift to give to my boyfriend, but I clearly had no issues thinking about myself.
However, I stumbled upon an article yesterday called “A Reality Check for All Girls Who Say “I Have The Best Boyfriend Ever!” and was immediately annoyed. But after reading this article, I began to think about the concept of Valentine’s Day. Yes, roses are wonderful, and they do make us feel special, but our boyfriends get us roses because that is what they are supposed to do. Valentine’s Day rules tell them that they have to do these things. They are doing what they are told. Because I was so excited over the roses and garlic bread, I honestly forgot what Valentine’s Day is about.
It’s about celebrating your relationship; your entire relationship. Not only celebrating your boyfriend for the flowers and the chocolates, but for the wonderful and unique moments that you share within your relationship. The jokes only you two share with a smile across the room, the television shows you’d kill each other for watching without the other, and the songs that only you two sing in the car. That is what should be the focus of your day. Sure, the flowers and the chocolates are sweet, but millions of girls are receiving flowers and chocolates.
What really makes him the best partner for you? What is unique about your relationship?
So how can we show our boyfriends we love and appreciate them with out being overly cheesy? What is something that we can give them that they may really appreciate? A break. I know this is a crazy idea, but I’m opting out of the fancy restaurant and choosing a night of home-cooked food and cheesy R&B love songs, because that is what we like to do. After all, we are in college, and I am definitely guilty of being fiscally irresponsible with eating out. I guarantee you can still have a wonderful night, with a full tummy, and a full wallet for your man. Giving our “best boyfriend ever” one Valentine’s Day with no stress is the least that we can do.
So, my relationship women, if your boyfriend truly makes you happy, listens to you when you need to vent about your roommate, or professor, or mother, and treats you with respect and loyalty, let’s give back this Valentine’s Day and give our (deserving) men the best gifts we can give: appreciation.