February, the month that arrives with a subtle but undeniable scent of infatuation and adoration. As a hopeless romantic, I am eager to dive into the annual celebration that can turn even the most stoic among us into starry-eyed admirers. But I must acknowledge that we are a dying breed. On Valentine’s Day, when Cupid is busier than a red-nosed reindeer on Christmas Eve, love becomes the currency of the day.
Let’s not be too quick to dismiss it as a capitalist plot – after all, there’s a rich history behind the Day of Hearts, and it’s a tale worth exploring. So, as you frantically make last-minute reservations and scour the net for florists willing to squeeze in a delivery for next Wednesday, let’s take a moment to embrace the charm and whimsy this month brings. Maybe, just maybe, you’ll allow yourself to be swept away by the fancifulness of love.
February 14th is that day of the year when it’s socially acceptable to be shamelessly affectionate. Whether you’re professing your undying love to a significant other, showering your friends with appreciation, or treating yourself to a solo dance party, it’s a day to celebrate love in all its forms.
Last year, without a designated valentine, I decided to be my own kind of Cupid and embarked on a mission to spread joy.
Yes, I took the day off work and floated around Cape Town. This cherub wasn’t wielding an arrow, but I did have roses and bottles of wine to gift to some of my closest friends. The reactions ranged from surprise to sheer delight.
Some may argue that Valentine’s Day is a concoction of capitalism, an economy-boosting love potion designed to drain wallets faster than you can say, “Do you accept credit cards?” While there might be some truth to that, let’s not forget that in a few weeks, parents will be hiding marshmallow eggs around their garden because a bunny rabbit laid them. And just a few weeks back, we were unwrapping gifts we willingly let a home invader leave in our homes – having put our milk and cookies for the man, no less! Some of our most beloved holidays are rooted in nonsense but we celebrate them anyway. Why do we suddenly become bashful about love?
And for those who think Valentine’s Day should be reserved for romantic love only, I beg to differ. We were encouraged to make cards for our parents in my primary school days. My dad, bless his heart, has bought me a bouquet or two. February 14 celebrates love in all its beautiful, cheesy, and heartwarming glory.
So, as we gear up for another round of heart-shaped confetti and love-struck emojis, let’s remember the essence of Valentine’s Day. Whether you’re sharing a candlelit dinner with your significant other, hosting a Galentine’s gathering with your crew, or simply indulging in a box of chocolates meant for two (you and yourself), let the spirit of love take centre stage. After all, in a world that can sometimes feel short on hugs and kisses, a day dedicated to love is worth celebrating. Here’s to converting the staunchest cynic into a hopeless romantic, one heart-shaped chocolate at a time.
Mindful Musings
What the world was musing over the past week
Local Wins in Music Internationally
22-year-old Durban-born musician Tyla wins first Grammy for Best African Music Performance, beating out Nigerian artists Burna Boy, Ayra Starr, and fellow South African Musa Keys.
The Future is Now
Elon Musk, the co-founder of Neuralink, has confirmed that the first brain microchip has been implanted into a human brain. This technology is projected to not only help patients with paralysis but eventually merge human consciousness with AI.
Raiders of The Lost (Aero)Craft
Eighty-seven years after disappearing over the Pacific Ocean, the mystery of Amelia Earhart’s aircraft might have been solved. Deep Sea Vision claims to have found the wreckage buried 4,877 metres below sea level.
