So
here we are, just a few days away from the most commercially celebrated and, in
my opinion, highly overrated day of love – Valentine’s Day. But right from the
start of February, you’ll see advertisements flooding every medium possible –
from your preferred newspapers and television channels to social networking
sites and your very own mobile phone courtesy blast messages and promotional
texts – all of which surround you with innumerable reminders of the fast
approaching moment when both your heart and your wallet will look and feel
lighter.
Now
while most people I know give in to the pressure of the day, I find myself
getting more irked by the notion of these particular 24 hours, with each
passing year. After all, why do we need just the one day to show our love and
appreciation of someone? Why can’t we bring the person or the people we love,
flowers, chocolates and invitations to fancy, romantic meals right through the
year? I truly believe that when it comes in the form of an unexpected surprise,
that’s when it is most cherished, remembered and enjoyed. Also, on the
flipside, when it’s anticipated (such as on V-Day) and one fails to deliver to
another’s expectations, that’s the precise moment you find yourself in the
doghouse with disappointment and resentment for company (and maybe a few tears
thrown in for a full dramatic effect).
So
to avoid all these possible awkward situations, I suggest one should aim to
portray the love one feels, each day, in some way, shape or form, big or small.
Take for example the old humble couple that can be found every morning at the
sea facing park in Caranzalem. At face value, they seem to be a simple, not
formally educated couple, with the gentleman likely in his 80s and the lady, in
her 70s. Daily, they emerge from behind the sand dunes, where one can only
presume their hutment is nestled, either hand in hand or with his arm over her
shoulder. Day in and day out, you’ll find him giving her a helping hand over a
low wall, making for a familiar sight to joggers, walkers and other health
enthusiasts. While no diamonds adorn her fingers or ears and no fancy garments
clothe either body, the love is there for all to see and the sight in itself is
enough to warm the cockles of the hardest heart.
Another
shining example for me is that of some very close friends of mine. Without a
doubt, the wife is more than just a bit of a calamity Jane, constantly losing
keys and valuables, forgetting where she parks her bike and running into
multiple misfortunes some way or the other. But her husband’s first concern is
always her safety and wellbeing. Never once has he raised his voice or got
upset over the loss or damage of material things. One would naturally assume
that they come from a wealthy background but, trust me, they don’t. Whatever they
have, is hard earned. But that doesn’t stop him from whisking her away, sans
children, for a three-day getaway to a five star resort out of town for some
well-deserved rest, relaxation and one-on-one time.
You
see, for me, it’s these small gestures that count for a lot. One doesn’t need
movie-style epic gestures of love to show that one cares. Yes, the latter make
for great memories but it’s not like the smaller ones will be forgotten or, in
any way, be less cherished. From understanding when the person you love needs a
break and sacrificing your own time to ensure that he/she gets that time away
to do his/her own thing to little words of encouragement and appreciation
coupled with quality time spent together, makes for memories that will last a
lifetime. At the end, love conquers all. So here’s wishing you and yours a very
happy 24×7, all year round, Valentine’s Day!!!
