Sound Off: 
Valentine’s Day Sucks

Where did all of these ridiculous traditions come from?


Every February, the radio plays a plethora of love songs and on TV there are nothing but romantic comedies. Inside of every store there are cherubs dangling from the ceiling, rose petals on the floor, employees dressed in red and pink, teddy bears that squeal “I love you” when hugged and countless heart-shaped boxes filled with chocolate. At school, there are cliques who excitedly discuss their plans for the 14th while the groups of morose singles try to ignore the happiness radiating from others. 


Every year, billions of dollars are spent on this so-called holiday, which historically honoured a saint named Valentine who died for something he believed in hundreds of years ago. St. Valentine did not exchange chocolates with anyone. He did not buy an overpriced bouquet of roses. There were no expectations for a fabulous romantic evening, nor did he have to pretend that he had a date just to be cool like everyone else. So where did all of these ridiculous traditions come from?


Aside from all the overspending that goes on leading up to and on the 14th of February, Valentine’s Day is not as love-ly as it appears or as all the stores and commercials make it out to be. Somehow, it has morphed into a day of either social acceptance or rejection.


If you are in a relationship, then you are the bee’s knees and it is expected that you shall have big plans and will be showered with love, gifts and affection. Especially if you’re a woman – it’s almost a fact that men spend more money on this holiday than women do. But whether you’re a man or woman, you’re safe and perhaps even idolized for having a special someone.


Being single is a totally different story. Whether you’re comfortable with your lack-of-partner status or not, you will either have to face the piteous looks of your peers (even with Matrix-style moves to avoid them, they always hit their mark!), or empty your wallet by purchasing a large bouquet of roses to be delivered to your school or office in front of everyone, just so they know how hot of an item you are.


However, as they say, all bad things must come to an end (some faster than others) and on the dawn of February 15th, the love songs fade, the romantic comedy marathons are over and loveless shows like Two and a Half Men go back on the air. The red hearts and cherubs get taken down, while all unsold Valentine’s Day merchandise goes on sale for half of what it cost before. But, unfortunately, whether at work or at school, the stories of this overrated day will last for at least another three days. Good luck surviving this horrible holiday!