When people think of Valentine’s Day, a day of love and romance usually comes to mind. Candy, roses, and a special evening with that perfect person are the common ideas associated with Feb 14.
But not everyone is celebrating. Many view the day as a bitter reminder of their heartbreaks or single status.
“Valentine’s day is a great day, especially if you have someone to spend it with,” said Valerie Achkhanian ’04, “but seeing everyone get packages, flowers, and presents, when you aren’t able to receive gifts, can make the day look not as great.”
Not only does Valentine’s Day put a negative light on being single, but it also makes it harder for couples involved in long distance relationships. Being away from a significant other is hard enough during ordinary days, but on a holiday celebrating love, it can be painful not to be close to your boyfriend or girlfriend.
“I know the pain of being away from a loved one on Valentine’s Day since my boyfriend is in England,” said Zoya Yaduichuk, ’03. “The distance makes it hard and the day can make you really sad instead of happy.”
Even for people that are in a perfectly happy relationship, Valentine’s Day can bring some tension or unwanted pressure to couples. High prices, long lines, and unhappy reactions from significant others can cause people to become fed up with the supposed “special day.”
“Last year my girlfriend and I spent over two hours waiting for restaurant reservations,” said Victor Izquierdo, ’02. “After a long wait and poor service, my girlfriend was disappointed with the gift I had bought her. That was the last year. I shall not celebrate Valentine’s Day again until I am married!”
Many students feel that one of the biggest problems with Valentine’s Day is the high commercialism. Companies tend to raise prices on everything so they can make a profit, and it’s hard not to notice the surplus of Valentine’s Day products.
Valentine’s Day decorations and supplies are prevalent right after Christmas, reminding everyone to begin shopping as soon as possible. With all the ads for flowers, chocolate and jewelry, many feel pressured into buying more than they can afford.
“Valentine’s Day is a day to show your love and your devotion, and also the deepness of your wallet,” said Jake Pierson, ’05.
While it’s nice to have a day put aside for loved ones to celebrate, it’s important not to get carried away with the superficiality that the holiday brings.
“I don’t understand why people make such a big fuss over Valentine’s Day. If there is love among the couple than every day should be special, and people should prove their love in other ways besides materialistic gift giving,” said Michael Dougherty, ’04.
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