ALT-2 Valentines Day Commercial Hype or Romantic Opportunity – Romantic
Valentine's Day doesn't have to be the syrupy sweet, tacky holiday we've come to expect. Any walk down the seasonal display aisle of your local supermarket, or even pharmacy store, will showcase cheap stuffed animals targeted to anyone from little kids to the grandmotherly set. Who really needs another coffee mug with little hearts stenciled all over it? Don't get me started on the chocolates shaped like roses stuck on the end of a fake green stem. These last-minute gift options might save face for some people, but they certainly do taint an otherwise romantic day.
However, while a bouquet of fresh flowers might seem cliche, it really is a lovely gesture, especially when presented romantically. Don't toss the roses on the table on your way upstairs to change. An unexpected champagne toast with dinner goes a long way. Cards might indeed seem old-fashioned, but a simple note with your true sentiment is surely to be appreciated. True, many people tend to overdo the presents, even for their children, but one or two thoughtful gifts does not necessarily support the hype of Valentine's Day.
School children have long celebrated Valentine's Day with class parties and paper valentine exchanges. This is a nice opportunity for kids to show their friendship for others without feeling out of place. Everyone has a responsibility to be inclusive, and every child is made to feel that friendship, even just for a little while. One might argue that this angle of Valentine's Day is certainly not on the romantic page, but it's a valuable part of it. Children expressing even platonic love in a non-threatening environment can go a long way toward establishing a comfort level with expressing themselves.
Adults do not have to buy into the convenience store gifts. While a box of fine chocolates might seem unoriginal, the practice had to have started because people truly love chocolate. If we can get past that, maybe some of the more mundane gifts associated with Valentine's Day can gain a fresh appreciation. If you know your boyfriend loves chocolate, but the heart-shaped tins seem too feminine, you can still get him a decadent, expensive candy bar. Maybe your wife really does like flowers. Don't shun a bouquet just because you want to come up with a unique idea.
Just a day during which a couple can concentrate on their togetherness or a family can show support and love are the hallmarks of Valentine's Day. Just because there is commercial hype surrounding the intentions does not mean that the focus is lost.
