Valentine’s Day is celebrated by 57% of people of all ages across the nation. The day is about lovey-dovey couples, sweet things for your loved ones, confessions, etc. Valentine’s Day is celebrated on the 14th of February. While this day has many different origins, not all are so sweet.
Valentine’s Day was first celebrated around the 14th century. Though there are many different stories in the history of Valentine’s Day, one includes the imprisonment of Saint Valentine. Saint Valentine was known for performing weddings for Christian soldiers forbidden to marry by the Roman Emperor Claudius II. In the legend, there are some depictions where Saint Valentine healed the jailer’s blind daughter. Though it is not clearly said people believe he and the jailer’s daughter were in love. Before he was executed he wrote the jailer’s daughter a letter signed with “Your Valentine ” as a goodbye.
Of course, the way St. Valentine’s life ended could be seen as romantic—a final goodbye to the one he loved in a heartfelt letter. It could also seem a bit morbid to have a lovey-dovey-based holiday with an origin of St. Valentine’s tragic tale.
While on the topic of St. Valentine’s sad origin, Valentine’s Day has emphasized the loneliness some people feel, resulting in depression rates increasing. Valentine’s Day is a tough holiday for people who have experienced heartbreak. It is a day about love and happiness, but also a day that may highlight people’s lonesomeness.
Also, Valentine’s Day is often displayed as a holiday where you spend large amounts of money on your loved one. Whether for an expensive gift or a fancy night out, Valentine’s Day can pressure people into spending immense amounts of money.
Speaking of a fancy night out, what do people expect during Valentine’s Day? Many couples have high expectations for the day celebrating lovebirds. Some significant others can not always reach these excessive expectations. This can lead to disappointment and a faulty relationship.
People do not always need to focus on Valentine’s Day, especially single people. They can mope and cry, but there are definitely better things to that! Instead of being sad and lonely, focus on the people around, friends, and family. A Galentine’s Day is a perfect substitute for Valentine’s Day! Or a Malentine’s Day, according to Google. A Galentine’s Day is a day you can spend with your friends instead of a lover, basically a date with your friends.
There are many ways to spend Galentine’s Day, and here are some examples. Brunch and dinner dates are your go-tos for a tasty meal with your friends. Spa days, karaoke, and photo shoots are the perfect way to let loose and have fun with your girlfriends!
Don’t think Malentine’s Day was forgotten! Some activities for guys to try out include game night, hiking, and cooking. Game nights with friends can improve communication skills and help with team building. Hiking is a great way to connect with nature and get fresh air. Some people say cooking is an art form. Cooking is a life skill and a great way to practice money management.
All in all, Valentine’s Day has its cons. Everyone is open to celebrating the holiday however they please, whether it is spending time with a lover or friend!
