Candy is customary, but lavish me with love
For some, Valentine’s Day symbolizes only commercialism while the meaning of romance and love is shoved to the lowest rung of importance. Looking at sales forecasts, this proves to be true.
This year, the average person will shell out nearly $120 on the traditional gifts of candy, flowers, stuffed animals and jewelry, according to a survey conducted by the National Retail Federation. Total spending is expected to reach $15.7 billion.
However, for me, V-day is all about taking time to show love and to receive the same in return. Sure, I love the little gifts, especially See’s candy, but the gift with the most significance is when my husband gives me a hug and says, “Have I told you how much I love you today?” Or the memories of when my children were small and the only show of materialism was the valentine made in school out of red construction paper and pieces of paper doilies with cherished messages of unconditional endearment.
Looking back, Valentine’s Day was not a happy day when I was single. As I watched my co-workers, family and friends lavished with cards and gifts, I was reminded that perhaps I wasn’t the strong-willed independent woman. I was lonely and wanted someone to love me. In hindsight, this sounds a bit pathetic, but those emotions of wanting someone special in my life were only exacerbated as the calendar moved closer to Feb. 14.
Being in a loving relationship has its benefits, no doubt about it. A few that come to mind are someone to listen at any given moment, someone to rub your sore feet after a hard day’s work, and someone with whom to share common interests. Oh yeah, and someone to keep you warm at night, even though he snores like a grizzly bear. But the best part is someone to make you feel special and loved, especially on V-day.
So, come on honey, bring on the See’s candy, and remember, I like the caramels the best. And I’ll remember to wear those red heels you like so much.