What's Love Got To Do With It?

What's going on Live.Laugh.Love readers?!


This post is all about Valentine's Day, or as I like to call it - Singles' Awareness Day (S.A.D.). Now, some of you may think that I am just anti-Valentine because I am single. But honestly, I have never really counted February 14 as a holiday probably since Elementary School. I think my real problem with Valentine's Day, is that it only really tends to portray the romantic side of love. What about the love we have for our families and friends? Sure, you can buy your parents a valentine or even your close friends - but let's face it, the majority of Valentine's gifts are marketed towards the lovey-dovey couples out there. 

I decided to do some research on this supposed "holiday". Turns out, the origins of Valentine's Day, are about as dark as a red rose that's been spray painted black. While there is no exact date of origin, it is said that ancient Rome showed early signs. Through February 13 to 15, Romans celebrated Lupercalia - a sort of feast. Basically, men sacrificed a goat and dog, then proceeded to whip women with the hide of the animals they had slain. To add onto the crazy, women actually lined up to be beaten - under the impression that it would make them fertile. Yeah, another reason to be proud of being a woman in the 21st century. The name St. Valentine's Day also originated from ancient Rome as well when Emperor Claudius II executed two men both named Valentine on February 14 throughout 3rd century A.D. This led to a celebration by the Catholic Church, which they named - you guessed it - Saint Valentine's Day. 


It wasn't until the Middle Ages when Valentine's Day became more romantic - much thanks to Chaucer and Shakespeare... Its consumer-driven roots began during the industrial revolution in 1913, with the opening of Hallmark Cards in Kansas City. And the rest is history... According to industry experts, Valentine's Day sales this year are expected to reach $18.6 billion (who says you can't buy love?).


Overall, whichever way you spin it, being single on Valentine's does leave you feeling left out. But at the same time feeling grateful for all the things you do have in your life like family, friends, and good health. Besides, Marilyn said it best "It's better to be unhappy alone, than unhappy with someone.". It also helps knowing that, thankfully, it is just one day.


All arguments aside, whether you are pro or anti-Valentine's Day, I hope that all of you think about all the loved ones in your life everyday and don't rely on cinnamon hearts, chocolates, roses and generic cards to remind or show people how much you love them. Live. Laugh. and - most importantly - Love. Everyone. Everyday.  


I leave you with these wise and poignant words from super-talented singer/songwriter Rachael Yamagata's song Elephants: 

"So for those of you falling in love, keep it kind, 

keep it good, keep it right,

throw yourself in the midst of danger - but keep one eye open at night." 

- Sinem Tekin