Editorial: Be a true lover each day of year

When I was single, Valentine's Day was just another harsh reminder that you were alone, writes Rebecca Savory. Photo / APN

With another money-making holiday on the calendar and florists and gift stores rushing around with last-minute orders, the conversation in the newsroom turns to Valentine's Day and everybody's plans.

I am not exaggerating when I say a communal groan occurred.

It's this kind of feedback that makes me pose this question: Does anybody actually like Valentine's Day?

I am yet to hear a positive word said. Are we all - dare I say it - sheep giving in to societal pressures.

I do know this view will not impress die-hard Valentine-romantics out there. Congratulations to you. You are keeping the florists happy.

I know I am not alone in this view. We are silenced by the overwhelming voice of advertising.

When I was single, Valentine's Day was just another harsh reminder that you were alone. It made it a struggle to maintain your "happily independent" mantra.

My views have changed now I'm in a relationship because now I feel pressured to take part.

I believe acts of love should be shown on more than one day a year through things other than a box of chocolates and a teddy bear.

Call me high maintenance, but I prefer to think of myself as a traditionalist.

I'm not saying we should not have a day to remind us to show our appreciation, but let's strive to show it in a deeper way. How about we trade in the teddy bears for acts of kindness and roses for a kiss on the cheek every morning?

With divorce rates rising and the commercialisation of Valentine's Day, have we lost sight of true, solid, bring-me-breakfast-in-bed, I-rub-your-feet-you-rub-mine, love?

I don't think we have. It's just hidden behind a cloud of advertising and pressure to show it in gifts.

So good luck fighting the pressure today lovers, and singletons can take comfort in the fact that in a few hours the whole thing will be over.