Enjoying the anti-Valentines Day
Valentines Day can be tough for the romantically challenged, i.e. those who are single. In other words, schlubs like me. But life as a sports reporter often means always jetting around from one place to the next in search of the perfect picture or perfect story.
As a result, it leaves precious little time for romance or dating. So when a holiday like Valentines Day rolls around, what do I do with my time? I make excellent use of it by laughing at those poor souls who must purchase jewelry, cards and chocolates.
IthankmyluckystarsthatIdon’thavetochuck $20 at overpriced Hallmark cards and chocolates and candy that can be had for 50 percent off the very next day. I do admit, that when February 14 does come around, sometimes it can be hard seeing people with their special someone, but I also remind myself that when I cook two steaks, they’re both for me, and me alone.
Over the years I’ve sort of created this antimovement where instead of watching romantic comedies and crying myself to sleep and feeling like I’m going to die alone, I watch action flicks and eat those two giant pieces of beef.
My favorite go-to film on Valentines Day is Braveheart with Mel Gibson, followed by Gladitor with Russel Crowe, or The Last Samurai with Tom Cruise. From there, I tend to follow that up with a Western like Tombstone. I also like to see if there’s any sports going on.
It’s not that I am against having a day where we celebrate love and romance and the happiness and joy of finding someone to love and share the world with. Far from it. I’m all for love, and I happen to think we need more of that in the world.
When I look on TV, and see all the anger out there, I think about how much better we would all be if we got together and just spent some time sharing our honest feelings. It might help this country heal from deep divides. So, no, I do not mind the spirit of Valentines Day.
What I do take issue with is the consumer-driven nature that the modern day holiday has become. I can’t say for certain, but I feel like St. Valentine himself would agree with me on this one. There’s far too much pressure to find that perfect gift, or create the perfect date, or go to great, sometimes ridiculous, lengths to prove one’s undying love.
Diamonds and jewelry and fancy displays of affection are all well and good, but in my opinion true love isn’t found in a shiny rock, or some ostentatious display of romance. True love is found in the simple things, the gentle things.
It’s picking up some flowers to brighten someone’s day. It’s doing the dishes when you’re not asked. It’s taking care of the kids when one adult gets sick.
In short, true love is expressed every day, in a million tiny little acts of generosity and affection. True love does not have to be flashy or bold or in your face. Every day should be a day filled with love.
Above all, every day should be a day where we tell our special people that we love them.
M USINGS AND G RUMBLINGS
ROSS PATTERMANN REPORTER
