Keep Tradition
Fernando Trujillo, Sophomore - 2024/2025 Arts and Life Assistant Editor
vol.1 iss.6 - Feb. 20, 2024
Valentine's Day has become a celebration of all kinds of love: romantic, friendship, and even self-love. But, what is the true meaning of Valentine's Day?
By definition, Valentine’s day celebrates love and affection, things that we often only share between couples. It's great to appreciate all sorts of love, but we love our friends and family 24/7, regardless of the day, so why not just leave this one holiday to those in romantic relationships.
By tradition, Valentine’s Day should stay between couples. Dating back to ancient Rome and the Middle Ages, Valentines Day has always been a day for couples, not friendship or acts of kindness. It has always been couples and couples only, It’s not necessary to include everyone.
There are a lot of other holidays that celebrate relationships with other loved ones, like Thanksgiving in which we show gratitude for our family and friends. But, couples don't get as much attention. Because of this, Valentine's day is kept more private and should be more important to romantic partners. Couples can celebrate their love without worrying about inclusivity since it's just about them two.
If everyone celebrates Valentine’s day with friends, coworkers, and even themselves, it loses the meaning behind Valentine’s Day. If everyone celebrates it, it no longer evokes the same feelings of intimacy and closeness.
If people are truly concerned about feeling loved outside of romance, there are plenty of other celebrations for them. Friendship has an International friendship day, self-love is promoted daily, and Mother’s and Father’s day dedicate time to show love to your parents.
If you are worried about not gaining any sort of recognition, your time will come! There are plenty of other celebrations to show others your care about them and they you.
While all types of love are very important, Valentine’s should be a day for couples. The purpose of the holiday has long been to celebrate romantic relationships.
Valentine’s should be a day for couples. Let the tradition remain.