I Love Candy Hearts.

In response to all of the anti-Valentine's Day chatter going about, I want to say I don't hate it. I'm not mad at St. Valentine for being born, or at anyone who wants to celebrate his day. I think about Valentine's Day similarly to how I think about Father's Day. Currently, I have no children and I'm not a dad so I don't celebrate. I'm not opposed to Father's Day or one day becoming a father, but it's not part of my existence right now. No need for hostility.

I had a friend who is in a relationship tell me that she thinks Valentine's Day is just another excuse to make money. That might be true, but one could say the same thing about Christmas. That doesn't change what it's really for--we don't have to let what others make it into be our purpose also. The actual legend of St. Valentine and why he's associated with the day is quite romantic, a very cool story. And that whole, "you don't need just one day a year to celebrate your love for someone," argument can be used for a number of holidays.

When you think about it, who's really waiting around until Valentine's Day, withholding love and waiting to express appreciation? Not many couples I know. If that's happening in your relationship it might be a good thing to consider leaving the relationship behind. And if it's happening to someone you know, be a good friend and break them up.

posted by Cameron Lawrence at 11:30