In a recent column, I wrote about the genres seen most commonly during the holidays. When writing about romantic comedies, I questioned whether there were more of them during the holidays than during Valentine’s. The more I have thought about it, the more I have realized there is no question about it. Christmas movies highlight the true season for love.
Even those who hate or do not celebrate Christmas will admit it is the happiest time of year. Hell, that is part of the reason they dislike it so much. The general goodwill leads to other parts of life. We want to see a mistletoe put to good use. Plus, there are few things better than seeing people share their first kiss on a snowy Christmas Day.
This same atmosphere does not revolve around February. It is one of those months that is not sure what season it is. Instead, it sits in a weather purgatory that mixes hot, cold, clouds, sun, and rain all at the same time. Plus, it gets gloomy and windy. It pales in comparison to the robust fun of December.
The whole meaning of Valentine’s Day has changed, also. I am sure there was a time when February 14th was all about love. At some point, things changed and it became as much about being alone. How often do you hear someone talk about their Lonely Hearts Club or Anti Valentine’s party? Why put up with the downer Valentine’s sentiment when you can revel in Christmas joy?
As is the case with most things involving the heart, timing plays a big part. As the year comes to an end, there is a mix of anticipation and excitement. This is especially the case in 2020, but it is the same feeling every year. Even in the best of years, there is the feeling of “and next year will be even better!”
This changes a few weeks into January when the realization that things are not going to get instantly better hits. At best, they remain status quo. Come February, there is a feeling that the new year already sucks. It is hard to get into a Hallmark holiday when the new year is off to a horrible start – which it always is.
I am a married man, so Valentine’s Day has not meant much to me for years. Christmas is the real holiday about love. It is set during the time of year when our expectations are highest, does not pit people against each other, and is just generally filled with goodwill. This can be seen in the holiday rom coms. They surpass the ones released in February and teach everyone about love, actually.
Deflategate was the gift that kept on giving
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