Real Love
On Valentines day, or any day dedicated to recognizing our love for each other, find a way to step outside commercialism into care. What causes are important to the person you’re celebrating? How could you incorporate those values? Skip the overpriced imported flowers and support something that matters to the person who matters to you.
How to do it:
Instead of an overpriced valentines day special at the usual places, take your date to an ethnic restaurant that might not be so overcrowded. Choose a cuisine they love, or one from a place they’ve always wanted to visit. Consider buying a living native plant for the yard, instead of imported flowers, or get a small box of high quality locally-made chocolates rather than a large heart-shaped box of waxy mass-produced sugar. Think quality over quantity, and consider your sources.
Instead of generic jewelry, consider a baker’s dozen of well-made pins that send a message. Or shop the increasing supply of politically pointed jewelry. If classics are her thing, consider a vintage or locally-owned shop instead of a big mall sale.
Or skip the commercialism entirely. Plan a special day at home or at a park, and gift the money you would have spent to their favorite charity.
Show the person you love that you see what matters to them.
