I don’t think it’s coincidental that abbreviating Valentine’s Day leaves you with VD. In fact, Valentine’s Day and STDs have a lot in common. Think about it. Both require you to dish out money so they’ll disappear, both are nasty, and both leave you feeling depressed and ashamed.

Ok fine, maybe I’m being slightly hyperbolic, but come on, you have to admit there’s some truth behind what I’m saying. I just find it absolutely ridiculous that, the ever pesky “They”, has told us that on a particular day—February 14th—we’re supposed to tell our significant other that we love them. Seems easy enough right? Wrong. You see, just saying the words “I love you” isn’t enough. Nope. We have to go to 1-800-FLOWERS and get a dozen roses. We have to go to Jared and get the ring. While we’re at it, we might as well go to Hallmark and get a card, and then hit up Victoria’s Secret to get overpriced lingerie. Whew! You’re done, right? Wrong again. You forgot about the dinner reservations. How could you forget about the dinner reservations?! God, you’re such a screw up.

Am I coming across as bitter? I hope I’m not coming across as bitter, because I promise you, I’m not bitter. And if you’re a person who enjoys Valentine’s Day that’s great; it’s your prerogative. I just really hope you aren’t overlooking the other 364 days of the year.

You see, I have this theory about Thanksgiving. Yeah, yeah, yeah, it seems like I’m getting off track, but just hear me out. I have this theory that if everyone decided to be thankful and count their blessings year round—instead of once a year—there would be a lot less strife in the world. I have similar sentiments towards Valentine’s Day. What would happen if we started treating every day like Valentine’s Day? Instead of saving the bells and whistles for February 14th. What if we declared our love for him, or her, on a regular basis? I happen to think relationships would be healthier, and as a result become much stronger.

My advice to you is this: Make those dinner reservations. Get fancy, and go out and have a romantic evening. But maybe save the roses for February 20th. March 12th seems like a good day for the Hallmark card. I believe Victoria’s Secret will have a semi-annual sale sometime in May, and Jared… Save Jared for when you’re absolutely certain he or she is the elusive “one”. The point is to show appreciation for your special someone every day.

Because, be honest with yourself, VD is disgusting!