In The Name of Love
February 3, 2012 by mjessimanSeems like just when the waistline and credit cards have recovered from Christmas and New Year’s, it’s time for Valentine’s Day. More chocolate! More gifts! More dashed expectations!
Yes, the lovers’ holiday that so many love to hate is fast upon us. And regardless of the fact that I know of few people older than 10 who really want a teddy bear wearing a T-shirt that reads “li’l Heartbreaker,” if you’re single and not lovin’ it, February can be the cruellest month. Even if you are in a relationship the day can be fraught; despite the object of one’s affections’ claim that V-Day is a Hallmark holiday and he/she really doesn’t care, pity the significant other who lets the day go by unacknowledged.
In the past I have been known to align myself with the cynical naysayers, but this year I’ve had, ahem, a change of heart. Forgive me if I sound like Oprah, but with all the pain and suffering in the world, why begrudge a day devoted to love, love and love? Sure the greeting-card sentiment and some of the chocolate is cloyingly sweet, and the eco footprint of that bouquet of roses shipped from south of the border is large. But consider this: the State of Iran, in an effort to combat the “corruptive spread” of western culture, has banned the production of Valentine’s Day gifts. They also forbid too-bright nail polish, women playing in bands and television cooking shows like Jamie Oliver’s that teach non-Iranian dishes. Do you really want to align yourself with such a bunch when it comes to this matter?
Approaching the celebration of Valentine’s Day as a subversive act puts a totally different spin on things. So get out there and raise a pint—or even just a spoonful of Jell-O—to love.
