Many people are unaware Valentine’s Day is not rooted in romance and love.

The holiday originated as a feast day in honor of the Christian martyr, Saint Valentine. The most historical story suggests that in third-century Rome, Emperor Claudius II “banned marriages for young men in the belief that single men made better soldiers.” Saint Valentine defied this order and continued to perform marriages for young lovers in secret. When his unlawful actions were discovered, he was executed on Feb. 14 in A.D. 269.

Valentine’s Day, once a simple celebration of love and affection, has evolved into a commercial movement, often overshadowing its true essence.

In modern times, the holiday seems to have become synonymous with consumerism, prompting extravagant spending on gifts, flowers and elaborate gestures.

However, amidst the sea of heart-shaped chocolates and overpriced roses lies an opportunity to reclaim the authentic spirit of Valentine’s Day: genuine connection and heartfelt expression.

It’s undeniably evident the commercialization of Valentine’s Day has reached unprecedented levels. Department stores transform into love emporiums adorned with crimson decorations and shelves stocked with romantic paraphernalia. Advertisements bombard us with images of idealized romance, suggesting true love can be purchased in the form of lavish gifts and extravagant experiences.

Amidst this consumer frenzy, it’s easy to lose sight of what truly matters: the sincere exchange of love and affection between individuals.

But does Valentine’s Day have to be synonymous with consumerism? Absolutely not. At its core, Valentine’s Day is about celebrating love in its infinite forms such as romantic, platonic, familial and self-love. It’s about cherishing the people who hold a special place in our hearts and expressing gratitude for their presence in our lives. In essence, it’s a day to reconnect with what truly matters: human connection.

Instead of succumbing to the pressure of extravagant gestures and materialistic displays of affection, let’s use Valentine’s Day as an opportunity to cultivate meaningful connections.

This could mean spending quality time with loved ones, engaging in heartfelt conversations or simply expressing appreciation for the people who enrich our lives. After all, the most valuable gifts are often intangible, like a listening ear, a warm embrace or a heartfelt “I love you.”

Moreover, let’s not confine the celebration of love to a single day on the calendar.

Love is a year-round endeavor.

It requires nurturing, effort and commitment. Instead of relegating expressions of love to a once-a-year extravaganza, let’s strive to incorporate them into our daily lives. Whether it’s leaving a love note for a partner, sharing a meal with family or reaching out to a friend in need, small acts of kindness and affection can have a profound impact on our relationships and well-being.

Let’s reclaim the true spirit of the holiday by prioritizing genuine connection over consumerism and by cherishing the people who bring love and joy into our lives every day.

After all, love is the most precious gift of all and it’s one that should be celebrated, cherished and shared not just on Valentine’s Day, but every day of the year.

Carlina Krajnik is an opinion writer. Contact her at [email protected].