A Valentine's Day Thought (ATTN: NOT related to IMC 642)

First off, I want to be clear that I’m not bitter, jealous or a curmudgeon, because I truly do believe I am most blessed and fortunate when it comes to the love department. My sensitivity is heightened right now due to the 50 Shades of Grey controversy and it’s causing me to feel a bit prickly toward some of the Valentine’s Day social media posts I’ve seen.

A man is not “the best boyfriend ever” just because he bought a dozen roses or a box of chocolates, or even a diamond ring. You are not “the luckiest girl in the world” to not have to cook dinner for one night because Valentine’s Day is an excuse for him to receive praise for doing what you do for him every day. Look. I’m not trying to be a jerk. If you’re happy, I’m happy for you. I just really hope that people aren’t missing the point of love on a day that is dedicated to celebrating it.

I’d like to say that my guy is the best boyfriend ever because he respects me. He cherishes me. He listens to me. He is considerate of me and my preferences. He is generous of his time with me. These are not things that can be filtered and posted to Instagram; they are not succinct enough that they can be properly portrayed in a tweet. And the plus side? All of this is not limited to a money-fueled holiday. This is all year long, baby.

Again, I’m happy for you if you received a gift you loved. After all, who doesn’t love a gift at any time? But please don’t make gifts out to be more than they are. It’s an incredible feeling to know that the love you exude is fully reciprocated - and that is what matters. The rest is fluff. Both of you deserve this kind of consideration from one another year round. And don’t you forget that!