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YourHub.com \\ Denver \\ Stories \\ Tips & Techniques \\ Love Advice

Love on the Rockies: In defense of Valentine's Day

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Contributed by: Allyson Reedy on 2/2/2007

Did you just hear that? It's the sound of millions of men groaning; Valentine's Day is right around the corner.
I can't tell you how many times I've heard guys whining and complaining about this sweet little holiday: It's a Hallmark holiday - not even real. Why do I have to spend three times as much on flowers simply because it's V-day? Why is all the pressure on me to do something extraordinary? Can't I show her I love her another day? I'm not caving to the commercialism of it.
All excellent points, and I agree that men are probably subject to some unrealistic expectations on this day. But come on, I don't think all the men making these arguments are Casanovas who spoil their ladies on a daily basis. What's wrong with taking a day to focus on love, friendship and happiness? Take a look at the news - this isn't happening very often.
It's not all about romantic love either. Valentine's Day has always been my favorite day of the year.When I was a kid my mom and grandma would get me fun little V-day presents. In class, I loved the card exchange, and to this day I miss making heart-shaped mail boxes to collect my Snoopy and Disney cards in.
Back then it wasn't about fancy meals, overpriced flowers and romance. It was simply a day to show your loved ones how much they mean to you and to be happy.
I think the reason so many guys hate it isn't because they're misogynists or just plain grumpy. It's because us women have changed Valentine's Day to Women's Day. It's ok to expect your guy to bring you chocolates, but you better have a six-pack of beer for him chilling in the fridge.
And guys - it doesn't have to be a mushy lovefest. In fact, V-day can be traced back to ancient Roman roots where it began as a fertility celebration. A holiday based around sex can't be too bad, can it?
In college my single guy friends loved V-day because their odds of landing a girl at the bar skyrocket on February 14th. And as a single girl back then,some friends from the dorm bought me and my roommate some cute gifts - illustrating that V-day isn't just about hooking up (although maybe they had alterior motives...).
I understand that not everyone's Valentine's Days have been as happy as mine, and that's awful because I think the day exists to bring people joy. I think what needs to happen is we expand the definition of V-day and love. Send your grandmother a card and bring your co-worker their favorite candy bar. Buy your friend a drink at happy hour in honor of the good old saint. And if you have a significant other, skip the flowers and give a more thoughtful gift. That goes for both guys and girls.
As for me, I'll be in Thailand this year with my new husband! He gave me my gift early - a beautiful edition of Ulysses, which is better than a dozen roses any day.

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Submitted By: Jessica Lara

posted on 2/5/2007 @ 1:47:38 PM

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Valentine's Day is great! As a child, my mom used to do the baskets of presents for me too every year, and my dad would always send me a plant. I wish they hadn't decided I am too old for all that now. (Oh and yes, and as for you - there most certainly were alterior motives.)

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CONTRIBUTOR INFORMATION

Allyson Reedy

Littleton , CO

Allyson Reedy has posted 46 stories and 23 comments since joining on 6/13/2006. Allyson Reedy 's average story rating is 4.88.

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