Death to Valentines II

Last year, on the occasion of Valentine’s Day, I wrote about how much I detest the day for lovers. I mean, enough already with the red and white! Believe it or not, what I wrote one year ago still applies today.

It’s that time of year again when lovers, romantics and those obsessed with all things red, wake up with a smile on their faces in anticipation of the day. No, it’s not even their birthday or wedding day. It’s Valentine’s Day, February 14—the day everyone gets flowers and chocolates and special unmentionables from their sweethearts. Everyone except the single people! And that includes yours truly. Why must this day even exist? Can’t couples buy flowers or chocolates and have that special dinner any ole time of the year?

Since I can’t wave my magic wand and make it all go away, I guess I will have to suffer through this year’s celebrations. Now, dear reader, please don’t get me wrong. I love the fact that couples get a chance to show their appreciation for each other and that some businesses will be having a very good week, but that day is just a slap in the face of all the single people out there.

Even though some of us love being just one, Valentine’s Day is like a child waving his finger at you, taunting you and reminding you that you are all alone. It’s everywhere you turn: School children wearing their little paper cutout hearts pinned to their chests, every store window advertising some special and let’s not forget the people who dress in red and white! I’ll be in black.And then, there are the ads on the radio, television and newspapers for every kind of Valentine’s Day event. This year I have realized that the organizers of these parties and dinners are actually inviting the single people to join in on the fun.

Now, think about it. Why would I, a single girl, want to come to a Valentine’s dinner and dance? Do I want to torture my weak heart by watching couples look at each other lovingly, dance closely and making out in all available corners, as I sit all by my lonesome listening to love songs? No way! Then, to add insult to injury, you have to pay more to attend if you are coming alone! I saw two events advertised on television where the entrance fee to the party is $20 for singles and $30 for couples (or $15 per person). So after I’m already feeling down about being alone on Valentine’s Day, I have to pay more than an attached person to enjoy myself and lift my spirits. Thanks a lot!

I must apologize if I sounded extremely angry or cynical or rude. I really can’t help it. To all the couples, please enjoy each other every day of the year and not just on Valentine’s. The truth is we have to be thankful for the people who love us. Forgive me if I look a little grumpy, snap at you or are dressed all in black. Hmmm, maybe next year I’ll be getting flowers or wearing red. Until next time . . .