Valentine's Day, despite its commercialization, is a force for good. There is plenty of debate in terms of social benefit. Many argue it holds little cultural significance versus economic. Contrastingly, it maintains sentimental values and can reinforce relationships through interaction. Valentine's has the ability to bring people together, but the economic elements are problematic.

     One argument is that Valentine's Day benefits companies by pressuring couples to splurge on festivities. Searching Instagram, there's 1 gift idea - shoes - and 9 options in the form of shoes. Similar content is why people think Valentine's is dying. Commercialism is rampant with no emphasis on relationships. Society has put up a wall to this materialism and associated it heavily with Valentine's.

     In the same search, there is a handful of nail-related-posts - something many women get done before Valentine's. The inclusion of this, along with the lack of Valentine's content with traditional values, has changed the perspective on Valentine's. This overshadows the holiday's roots, obscuring its purpose.

     Valentine's day can be a vehicle for love and respect. Many people don't have the resources to go on dates. Having a holiday like Valentine's facilitates this possibility with things like couple's discounts. This interaction can benefit many couples who wouldn't have otherwise been prompted to go out.

I think Valentine's is beneficial. Sometimes life can overshadow what's most important like love. The existence of Valentine's can be a savior for some yearning for meaningful time. Without that date, they may miss that. Not to mention, the commercial benefit is now an economic expectation - its end could create negative consequences.

     Valentine's can be useful. I feel that the rampant efforts to bank cash off of it have definitely overshadowed its roots. If those roots were revitalized among those involved, change is possible.