valentines day

http://www.newstatesman.com/lifestyle/2014/02/prison-made-flowers-how-valentines-day-sells-us-patriarchy-disguised-romance

I thought this was a pretty interesting article with cool perspectives and insights. In my opinion, it may have slightly missed the mark and/or not said all that it could have said. But still, I liked it. I really love the idea, or the idea I hold onto, of Valentine's day. I think that it is great when people use valentines day as a time when they can show everyone they care about they know and love them with thoughtful notes or DIY gifts. It's childish, and seems pointless, but makes you think about other people and show them you care, which is needed once a year. Either way, companies that can benefit from any holiday claim and morph valentines day into a time for couples, specifically the female in the relationships. They tell males that all females are superficial, diamond/chocolate/flower loving, and enjoy traditional chivalry. Females are told that if a male does not buy them flowers, chocolate or jewelry they do not love them. I do not think any less of a person that loves diamonds, flowers, etc. but if someone was to ask what gift would make me feel loved out of the context of valentines day, I would never think jewelry, flowers and chocolate ha. It is hard to discuss this topic without seeming like an ungrateful girl, and I would like to make the point that this is probably an even more annoying holiday for men as well.  Overall, my point is an obvious one, that not all women are the same. Not all men are the same. The way the media presents Valentines day is hilarious, impersonal and annoying for both men and women. It does little besides perpetuating the idea that men and women are too different.