Stupid Cupid

I do not remember been ever given a piece of jewellery by my husband on Valentine’s Day. He has perhaps not done the most preferred things that a man would usually do on this day. Probably, it must have been something unspectacular years ago, but nothing so razzle-dazzle that I can  recall. Yes, I have often texted amorous messages and given to him a 'few' romantic cards, and a text message or a card in return is what makes my day. However, what brings me to write this piece is my response to the glow that surrounds the market place with Valentine’s Day almost there. The day is so starkly marked with the exchange of valuable gifts, amazing dinners out and romantic breaks enjoyed by couples at exotic resorts. The hefty price one has to pay to express such a compassionate and poignant emotion, truly amazes me.

Well, I’m one of those who believe that neither does love needs a specific day to be expressed, nor does this fundamental emotion requires the almighty dollar to be at its aid. Blessed are those who can recognize the depth of the endearment in all its ingenuity, unpolished and unmixed form.  An effortless,  matter-of -course and spontaneous emotion that can  be expressed through mere words and deeds seeks validation in commercial terms? Well, I find it difficult to stomach that, or has the language of love undergone a transformation?

When I found my significant other, I realised I was growing each day in a relationship  that needed constant expression. I learnt that 14th February was yet another day to express one’s fondest emotions and to spend time with each other to celebrate one’s togetherness. Exchanging cards on this day has always seemed quite romantic to me. Going back to my younger days, I remember admiring love cards in card galleries and floating into fantasy land pondering over those lovey-dovey, syrupy messages. Nonetheless, today as I see hotels and restaurants announce attractive deals and exciting packages to woo potential Valentines, I find myself at odds with the commercialisation that surrounds the spirit of love. Would a bling ever bring to one the warmth that comes with chatting endlessly with each other over a cup of coffee? Think of it!

Having been fervidly in love all these years, the insight to discern emotions from riches grows sharper with every passing year. Without sounding cynical at all and with due regards to all out there whose studs or bracelets bear the hallmark of Valentines Day, I find myself a misfit in the ring that entwines ‘cupid and coins’. I often wonder if it is my years of togetherness with my mate that makes me so impassive to merchantry and business that surrounds Valentine’s Day in modern times. On analysis, however, I realize that it is the pansophy that comes with age and, that makes for a clearer discernment. Now I can specifically say that  while money can never be a yardstick for love that grows with time, yet it certainly allows one the plenitude and profusion that helps one celebrate life. And if you love life, you  nurture it with love alone.

However, today, in the sixteenth year of a wonderful wedlock, I do look forward to what Valentine’s Day has in store for me. A bouquet of red roses, a card, a text message or a delightful e-card with a personalized message, anything that substantiates his desire to be by my side. Can this ever be replaced with a pair of impersonal diamond studs or a glittering bracelet?