Kindness notes, one of the many Valentine’s Day traditions, fill the wall

Yes, it’s commercialized. We still celebrate love.

By Ellie L.

As soon as the Christmas craze ends, the aisles of cards explode in scarlet and rosy pinks. Flowers and various heart shaped objects fill every store. Garish decor and teddy bears hang from the ceiling. Prices rise and rise, until February 15th, when everything is half off.

For some, it is a nightmare of over-commercialization. And yes, Valentine’s Day is commercialized. That commercialization has not ruined it. 

I understand that all the Valentine’s Day decor and materials can be a lot. It is certainly not for everyone. But think of the little children gluing googly eyes to their pop-up hearts. Think of the random customer sending a bright pink card to their parents. Think of the teenagers who might grumble and groan over Valentine’s Day… but will still enjoy the half-off candy and heart shaped goodies. 

Think of that wonder, joy and love. 

The garish decor and teddy bears might feel unnecessary, fake, and absurd. But if it gives opportunities for love and laughter to all kinds of people, I see this aspect of Valentine’s Day as serving its true purpose: to celebrate love. There’s no right way to celebrate love, and there’s no right love to focus on. 

It is still easy to wonder why Valentine’s Day is even needed, especially given its purpose. After all, shouldn’t we be celebrating love everyday?

Yes, we should be, and we aspire to. But it certainly does no harm to have one day devoted to love. And if Valentine’s Day gives us an excuse to celebrate it, we should take that chance.