It starts with a slight irritation and progresses into a burning sensation that has you looking for just the right remedy that will have you finding relief.
That’s right, it’s Valentine’s Day.
You knew it was approaching and dreaded the thought of having to get a gift that fit the relationship status you’re currently in.
If you’re married, will a dozen roses do, or are you expected to provide a night out, without the kids?
A new relationship?
What’s over the top, or not enough? Flowers and candy? A card that says you’re into the other one, but not into them more than you should be at this point?
A long relationship?
Do you have to top the gift from the previous year? What if things have gone downhill since then?
The only ones who seem to really love the thought of Valentine’s Day are the greeting card industry and florists, who promoted and got the day accepted as a necessity in our culture. One way, or another, they will make sales.
It doesn’t matter if your relationship is to the point where you are humping like bunnies on amphetamines, or fighting worse than two starving junkyard dogs over the remains of a corpse. You are obligated to provide some type of token that declares your love.
And the love industry makes money. It’s their best day of the year. More sales of Valentine cards than Christmas, birthday, sympathy, and all the rest, on any given day. If you don’t go through the motions, you’re either a bastard, or a bitch.
Do I sound cynical? Sure I do, because there is tomorrow.
The most popular holiday time chosen by people to break up with their boyfriend or girlfriend is after Valentine’s Day, followed closely by the weeks leading to Christmas, which was always my choice, when the choice was mine. I saved money by not having to buy gifts for her, but also her family.
Why the wait for Valentine’s Day to pass? Women are looking for a last trinket of jewelry. Men are looking for a last bang. Most say it would just be “cruel” to break up right before Valentine’s Day.
I never liked Valentine’s Day, even during my best relationships. Especially, during my worst ones.
It’s too much stress for someone who doesn’t like being committed to an unspoken obligation and expectation.
Which is why I now have a dog, but I’m still unable to throw off that corporate marketing brainwashing of Valentine’s Day.
I bought my dog a heart-shaped biscuit.
Disclaimer: On January 4, 2016, the owner of WestEastonPA.com began serving on the West Easton Council following an election. Postings and all content found on this website are the opinions of Matthew A. Dees and may not necessarily represent the opinion of the governing body for The Borough of West Easton.
