Courts of Rayleigh Florist
As Valentine’s Day and the celebrations surrounding it take place, many are excited about the opportunity to spend time with their loved ones and partake in gift-giving. However, some may also think that the holiday has been over-commercialized and pressurizing.
“I spent Valentine’s Day with my friends,” sophomore Danielle Garcia said. “We got food, ice cream and enjoyed time together while listening to music.”
Valentine’s Day doesn’t just have to be spent with a romantic partner, it can be well spent with close friends. It could be a refreshing way to celebrate platonic bonds without the pressure of a romantic relationship that Valentine’s Day and the month of February can bring.
“I do think Valentine’s Day puts pressure on people because they could feel left out and alone,” sophomore Max Chelin said. “But at the end of the day, it’s just meant to celebrate your loved ones, and people can give flowers and enjoy love any other day as well.”
Valentine’s Day, while being a time filled with emotion, has also become increasingly materialistic. Some feel the need to buy expensive gifts, and others browse the endless aisles of Valentine-themed things at most stores in the country.
“Every store I’ve been into this past month has been filled with Valentine’s themed treats and gifts,” sophomore Taylor Christensen said. “It seems a little extreme and I think it’s gotten out of hand.”
With the vast commercialization of the holiday, Valentine’s Day has possibly strayed away from its true meaning, a day dedicated to love and romance, and there are even some gestures that are more priceless than anything money could buy, like handwritten letters or crafts.
“I decided to write someone a letter to show my appreciation for them, and they did the same for me,” sophomore Camila Ramos said. “I think it’s a great way to show you care for someone without having to spend any money.”
With the opinions on Valentine’s Day being so varied, some thinking the day is overrated and others thinking it’s exciting, it could come down to the people it’s spent it with, and how that time was spent.
“I think it’s a cute holiday that allows people to show their appreciation for others,” junior Macy Lee said. “It shouldn’t have to be stressful or put people under too much pressure, it should just be focused on love.”