Valentine Day

Valentine Day has come and gone! The newspapers had pictures of couples tying the knot on Valentine Day which has become synonymous with Lovers' Day. The most common reason for getting married on this day is that it is easy to remember the anniversaries to come.

What happens on this day? As I walked along the street I saw people selling roses, single stalks or a posy. Florists had bouquets of different sizes to cater to customers who want to impress on their loved ones how much they are adored and loved. It goes without saying that on this day the price of the roses has been raised to take advantage of the occasion.

Some vendors have said that the demand for roses had dropped this year because of the global recession which has hit many people where it hurts most...... their pockets. Despite that I understand that the price of roses has increased. That being the case, it's not surprising that demand has dropped.

Well, is it really necessary to splash on roses just to show how much you love someone? A guy has been reported to say that the price does not matter because Valentine Day is only once a year. It's alright if one can afford it but what if one's budget is very tight? Red roses symbolise love. But if it is going to put you out of pocket, wouldn't a simple card do as well? Or, doing something for your loved one to show your love and appreciation? I'm sure the other party would appreciate it just as much if he or she is understanding. The effort of doing something special for your loved one would rate higher than pulling out the dollars to buy a rose. Besides, it's so stereotyped to do what most everyone is doing.

Valentine Day has become a fad that has been exploited for its commercial value. The hotels charge outrageous amounts for a dinner for two. Come on, under such trying times, surely it makes more sense to be more practical and celebrate the occasion by doing something different than blowing a good percentage of one's wages just for a dinner and roses?

One can be just as romantic, taking a stroll in the moonlight. It's what comes from the heart, saying what you feel which counts. No doubt it's nice to receive a gift but hey! Dollars and sense count too! Giving valentine cards is not confined to lovers only; friends can give valentine cards or tokens to one another, or to family members too.

I would take it to be also a day where you show appreciation of friendship between people, male or female. I sent e valentine cards to friends. Did you?