OPINION: Valentine’s Day is worth the celebration

Cynicism is not the anecdote that will rid the world of romance and Valentine’s Day.  

Feb. 14 brings with it a contrast of people who want to celebrate the romantic details of the holiday, while others prepare with dread and complain about the heavy consumerism promoted. While it is true that stores profit from people buying excessive amounts of cards and paraphernalia, Valentine’s Day is a demonstration of people celebrating their loved ones, romantic or platonic. It shouldn’t be treated as the annual burden that so many people feel it is.  

First, the United States is not the only country to celebrate Valentine’s Day. Several countries share the holiday or have a similar day dedicated during the year. It is not an American festivity designed to exploit hopeless romantics into buying a plethora of chocolate and flowers. The countries that participate range from Israel, Columbia, China and many others.  

This shows the value other countries place on a day dedicated to love. It’s not a singular experience reserved for an exclusive group. The special holiday is extended across borders, demonstrating the vastness of the human experience.  

Second, Feb. 14 is not for people only in romantic relationships. While it’s a wonderful day to spend with your paramour, it’s also the perfect date to celebrate your friends, family, roommates, etc. If you’re single for Valentine’s Day, don’t be scornful about the people who are in a relationship. It’s an opportunity to ask your parent to dinner, give your close friend a note about why you care about them or spend quality time with a sibling.  

The world is constantly moving and it’s a gift to have a day devoted to slowing down and being present with the ones you love. This year has been abrupt with change and put so many people’s lives in perspective. Take advantage of a time where you can embrace the companionship that a friend can offer.  

Lastly, if one is pessimistic about Valentine’s Day, then they might as well disregard Christmas and New Year’s. They shouldn’t push aside the whimsy and charm that makes this life worth living. While these holidays differ in their core characteristics, it is the revival of one’s soul that it experiences throughout these festive times that are the essentials for celebrating life. There are love and beauty every day, but these annual events are carved out to elevate them.  

It is a day like Valentine’s that removes the mundane and replaces it with the passion and delight that keeps the spirit alive. People can look outside of themselves and acknowledge others, living and loving.  

Instead of wallowing in the disenchantment that this Valentine’s Day may have brought you, remember the joy of being with others and celebrating together.  

Sierra Pesnell can be reached at arg-opinion@uidaho.edu