Valentine's Day is Not Just for Lovers
Alternatives to Valentine's Day that Don't Involve Burning Your Ex's Photographs
Back in the '90s, I was going to college in southern New England. Every Valentine's Day, I would buy two bouquets of flowers at a florist, then walk uphill across campus to my car. Men who passed me would get a look of, "Oh, my God! I forgot! It's Valentine's Day!" Women who passed me would give me a look of pure jealousy: "How does she rate two bouquets?" It always made me laugh.
Of course, the "secret" was that I had bought both bouquets. One was to take home (because I like flowers and why shouldn't I have some on Valentine's Day?). The other was for my grandparents. They lived an hour and a half away. Every other month or so, I would visit them. And on Valentine's Day, I would come over with a bouquet and a care package and take them out to dinner. Out we'd go, have seafood and toast the newest year with a few beers. Happy Valentine's Day. And we always had a good time.
Have you ever tried to go out for Valentine's Day when you weren't in a relationship? Well, it's no easier than booking for your guy or gal. The restaurants are packed. Lots of people go out for Valentine's Day who love each other but are not in love with each other. Families go out. Friends go out. Relatives go out. It doesn't make you a loser of Norman Bates proportions if you're out there and it's not on a date. You're hardly the only one.
Valentine's Day is not just for lovers.
Yet I never see this brought up. The media is full of articles and stories both for and against romance: dating rituals and tips; love songs; gift ideas; venues for that perfect date. Whatever. Where is the acknowledgement that the holiday can be celebrated for more kinds of love than just romance?
Look, there is bound to be someone you know that you haven't seen in a while and who is having a hard time. Take them out. If you're married, take the kids. If you have older relatives who are living alone and lonely, call round and cheer them up.
It sure beats staying at home, playing sad songs and feeling sorry for yourself.
Published by Paula R. Stiles
A 42-year-old American, I've taught fish-farming in Africa, run a rescue squad in Vermont and done a PhD in Scotland. You can find my published articles in history and both SF and Fantasy stories at: http://... View profile
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