I currently am in a Living-Learning Community (LLC) called Women in Math Science and Engineering (WIMSE). So, I decided to ask a few of my hallmates about what they think about Valentine’s Day.
Most said they loved it, due to the day-after discounted candy. However, there were certain stereotypes they did not agree with.
1) Capitalism
“I don’t like how Valentine’s Day is marketed. It expects people to show affection through monetary means, acting as if that is the only way to show love."
-Kendyl T.
She is not wrong. Now in days, many people do not have the money to pull extravagant surprises for their partner. While they may want to, sometimes it is just not feasible. As I am in a committed relationship, I understand when my partner cannot pay for a nice dinner out, or that one purse I wanted. But these things do not matter; and one should be more than happy to help their partner by any means if their affection is true, after-all, long term relationships are all about give and take.
2) Misconceptions
“I don’t like how Valentine’s Day gives people the impression that it is alright to only celebrate your love, and show affection on this one day. Showing your love to your partner should be a daily effort in trying to maintain a healthy relationship.”
-Laura K.
This is true for any thriving relationship. Showing how much someone means to you daily, encourages loyalty and affectional validation and trust. If it goes too long without letting your partner know how significant they are to you, they might feel unappreciated. This could lead to detachment and distancing all due to miscommunication.
3) Sexual Expectations
“I don’t like the sexual expectations. As a goofy person, I’m not so much of that pictured 'sexy valentine.'"
-Anonymous
This for sure can be a difficult expectation to overcome. Whether you are in a new relationship and want to seem adventurous, or in a long-held one and want to excite a flame there are always unspoken expectations. However, if your partner truly cares for you, there should be no expectations except for the ones you places in your own head.
Whether single, dating, or with your partner this Valentine’s Day, the important thing is to have unfiltered honest time spent with each other. That is what is important, not the gifts or lingerie.
But hey… regardless of your relationship status, there will always be half-off candy on February 15th.
