Valentine’s Day may be considered the world’s most despised holiday, but despite the criticisms, I’m not jumping on the bandwagon of hate. In fact, I find a certain charm in it. Sure, it’s commercialized, overhyped, and drenched in capitalism—but there’s something about this day that I just can’t dismiss. Let me explain.
It’s easy to attack Valentine’s Day as an invented celebration, created by card companies to sell you flowers, chocolates, and stuffed animals. But let’s be real: nearly every holiday has been manufactured in some way. Do we really believe that the King’s Birthday is on the king’s birthday, or that kings themselves weren’t a human-made institution to justify strange hats and odd rituals?
Yes, Valentine’s Day is a capitalist construct. But, as with almost everything else in society, capitalism has taken something inherently human—love—and figured out how to profit from it. That doesn’t mean we can’t find our own ways to make it meaningful without falling for the gimmicks. (And yes, I’m fully aware I just used “divorce” as a verb in an article about love. I apologize for the pun.)
Now, there’s one argument that always pops up in the discussion, and it’s the one I can’t stand: “We don’t need Valentine’s Day; we celebrate each other every day.” First of all, yuck. Second of all, I think you’re missing the point. Sure, it’s lovely to celebrate love every day, but let’s be honest: sometimes life gets in the way. We get busy, grumpy, distracted. Valentine’s Day gives us the opportunity to pause, reflect, and express our appreciation for those around us. Sometimes, handing over a bouquet or a heartfelt card is just a small way to remind someone how much they mean to you.
Valentine’s Day doesn’t have to be about romantic love, either. It’s also a chance to celebrate friendships, familial love, or any kind of affection. “Galentine’s Day,” for example, has taken off as a joyful celebration of women’s friendships—no chocolates, no grand gestures, just a moment to say, “I appreciate you.” Honestly, I’m a little envious; men tend to bond over sporting events, and there’s something beautiful about seeing affection expressed without the need for competition.
At the end of the day, we live in a world where it’s easy to get bogged down by the constant barrage of cynical marketing. In a time when genuine emotions are often twisted for profit, I appreciate that Valentine’s Day offers us a chance—however small—to express love freely, without expectation or obligation. Whether it’s for a partner, a friend, or even just a reminder to yourself that you are loved, that moment of connection is worth something.
As for me, I’m fortunate to have love in my life. I’ve spent enough Valentine’s Days feeling left out to truly appreciate the one I’m living now, with someone who makes every day feel special. I’m thankful for that, and I think a day dedicated to love is a beautiful thing.
Now, the real question is: does this article count as a Valentine’s gift, or do I actually need to go out and get something?
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