Relax. It’s not one of those holidays where businesses close early or anything.
By Alan Bauer
The Sun
Tomorrow, Thursday, Feb. 14, is Valentine’s Day. Still don’t have anything for your sweetie? Relax. It’s not one of those holidays where businesses close early or anything.
Actually, it’s just the opposite. If you own a flower shop, jewelry store or restaurant — just to name a few — you love Valentine’s Day. You’ll be open and ready to help any procrastinating buyers looking for that last-minute gift as they rush home from work or anxious to host loving couples for a special meal.
Americans typically spend billions of dollars, like $20 billion or so, for Valentine’s Day. They will target the usual gifts: jewelry, flowers, candy, cards, an evening out, etc.
Some people take a sort-of “Bah, humbug” approach to Valentine’s Day. They will point to the largely commercial aspect of the day. They will argue you should be showing love for the special people in your life every day, not just on an arbitrary date in the dead of winter whose origins aren’t exactly clear. They will note that of those billions of dollars spent, many will go for gifts that aren’t wanted or appreciated, or some people might not get the gift they want, leading to disappointment.
To which we say: OK. You have your points. You’re free to think what you want.
We see more good than harm in Valentine’s Day. What’s so terrible about setting aside a day to recognize love? While we don’t expect certain leaders in Washington, D.C., to exchange gifts, if everybody is focused on good feelings for 24 hours, maybe some of the tension will go away. Temporarily, at least.
And Valentine’s Day gifts don’t have to be extravagant to be appreciated, although, if the gift doesn’t meet someone’s expectations, you might want to re-examine your relationship or at least have a long talk.
We hope you spend Valentine’s Day with someone special and celebrate in a way that you both enjoy. There’s nothing wrong with an annual a day of love.
