Did you know Americans spent a grand total of 21.8 billion dollars on Valentine’s day in 2021 according to Statista.com? Valentine’s Day has been around for a while, but do people even celebrate? Surprisingly, It was invented in 496 AD in Rome. The meaning of the holiday is pretty dark. It originates from the execution of a priest named Valentine by the Roman Emperor Claudius II on February 14.

Over the years, this day has become increasingly controversial about whether it should be a holiday or not. Personally, I believe this holiday shouldn’t even exist. Valentine’s day pressures couples and makes them feel like they have to spend money and get their special person, gifts. It raises standards and often harms the relationship. Social media also plays a great factor in making couples envious, because they compare gifts and prices. While one couple may get their loved one flowers, another may get them diamond earrings.

Additionally, YouGovAmerica.com stats also say that 57% of people say that they enjoy Valentine’s day yet, in Fort Wayne, they have an anti-Valentines Day parade. Yet Tampa FL is feeling the love with their “speed dating ceremony”. A speed dating ceremony is when a group of single people have quick dates. This involves men and woman. Woman stay seated while the men rotate in sections of five minutes. Just two hours away by plane and they have totally different opinions and ways of celebration. Despite other people’s opinions, if you enjoy Valentine’s day, celebrate it, and if you don’t, don’t. This day is supposed to bring people together, so whatever version you celebrate, celebrate it together.