In modern-day America, there are many Holidays people set aside time to celebrate: Christmas, Thanksgiving, the Fourth of July, Easter and Halloween.
The most overrated holiday of all is Valentine’s Day.
It seems like the whole world is trying way too hard to make the holiday seem magical. But let’s be real: It’s not as fun as the movies, ads, cards, and social media make it out to be.
For many of us, February 14 doesn’t exactly scream “romance” or “joy,” but more like pressure and awkwardness.
First of all, Valentine’s Day comes with the pressure to be in a relationship. Everywhere you look, there’s a reminder that this is the “day of love.”
Whether you’re single or not, the overwhelming focus on romantic relationships can feel like a slap in the face.
“Valentine’s Day dramatizes relationships and makes everyone else feel left out,” Maverick Gerrior, senior at LHS, said.
If you’re single, you’re constantly reminded of how lonely you are all day. The whole day is full of messages about how you’re “missing out.” Not being in a relationship doesn’t mean you’re unworthy of love. You can still be single and be surrounded by deep, fulfilling relationships with friends and family. Yet, society somehow seems to ignore that.
Then there’s the gift-giving obligation put on us since elementary school. Many of us probably remember filling out those little cards and putting them in each of our classmates’ boxes on Valentine’s Day in elementary school. The pressure to make sure everyone was included was too much for us little kids.
Another issue I have with Valentine’s Day is the commercial overload.
From heart-shaped chocolate boxes to expensive bouquets, Valentine’s Day has turned into an over-commercialized holiday.
“I’d say the worst part of Valentine’s Day as someone in a relationship is how expensive it is, but it’s totally worth it,” William Neils said.
It makes love feel like a commodity, and you’re missing out if you don’t buy into it.
The constant bombardment of “perfect couple” images on social media only adds to the anxiety.
The pressure ramps up even more for those of us in high school. Navigating friendships, relationships, and self-esteem is already complicated enough. Throwing a holiday that insists on celebrating “romantic love” only adds to the confusion. Some of us aren’t in relationships; we’re just trying to get through the week.
For others, Valentine’s Day can heighten insecurities, especially when dealing with rejection, breakups, etc.
It’s important to remember that Valentine’s Day is just another day on the calendar. While some may enjoy the grand gestures and sugary sweetness, it’s crucial not to lose sight of the fact that love is not confined to a single day.
The most meaningful relationships are built over time, not on the pressure to be extra special for a single day.
Love should be celebrated every day through small acts of kindness and genuine connections. Instead of focusing on one day, why not spread these acts of love and kindness throughout the year? This can make every day feel like Valentine’s Day, without the pressure and commercialism.