Don’t “Buy Into” The Hype!

Okay everyone, brace yourself – it is that time of year again. Time to go out and spend some hard-earned cash on Valentine’s Day for the one you love. You know it is great for the greeting card industry (142 million cards exchanged); the chocolate companies (1.6 billion dollars); and roses for just that one day account for more than 1/3 of the florists’ income for the entire year. Some 36 million heart-shaped Valentine boxes of chocolate will be sold during the Valentine’s holiday! When you look at the totals it is true insanity. Love has never equated to a card, chocolates or flowers – love equates to one word and that is RESPECT. Without respect there is no kinship or true love. So, instead of buying into the industry’s madness, let us take a step back and really view this scenario. If you truly love and respect a person you want to do your utmost for them to show how you really feel. Put on those thinking caps folks – is there something better your love wants or needs? Sometimes it may be as simple as just going out on a date, like maybe dinner and a movie. Or, find someone to take the kids for the night and surprise your loved one with a night in – with no children! Whatever you plan will be greatly appreciated, because it is not about the gifts but about the quality time spent with one another. Many times we are so busy with work and family that our relationships take a back seat. Remember, they did not form a relationship with you for the cards, chocolate or flowers (although it did help), but they wanted to be with you because you and you alone fulfilled something in their lives. So, this Valentine’s Day, remember to put the respect back into your relationship and just enjoy your other half no matter what the budget. A thoughtful inexpensive gift is always more appreciated than a thoughtless expensive one. Never lose sight of the fact that you and only you will always be the true Valentine’s gift for your loved one!