Annoying Love Themes
Valentine’s Day is the time of year when husbands, fathers, and sons run ragged, scratching their heads trying to be romantic. It’s interesting how the onus is on the man to prove his love and devotion. Florists, jewelers, and bakers thrive at this time of the year. When men are trying to figure out what is considered romantic without being cheesy, they tend to rely on popular culture for their ideas. Unfortunately, what mainstream culture portrays as romantic may not be representative for the general population (female population). Below is a list of four themes that can easily backfire.
- Love Quote – The worst quote is from the movie Jerry Maguire: “You complete me.” I’ve never understood why this is considered so heartfelt. If you believe that you need to love yourself before you can truly love someone else, then how on earth is it possible for someone else to complete you? I understand I may be a cynic, but I prefer being whole. If you say this to your valentine, she may or may not appreciate the sentiment.
Love Song – I twitch just thinking about this song, Celine Dion’s hit from the movie - Love Song – I twitch just thinking about this song, Celine Dion’s hit from the movie Titanic, “My Heart Will Go On.” Please don’t play this song for your valentine. I pray it won’t be playing at a restaurant during a romantic evening. Maybe it is because the song was overplayed, but I can’t even listen to more than two beats before I change the channel or leave. Spare yourself and your date, and don’t play this song.
- Love Story – The ultimate love story of all time is Romeo and Juliet. It’s been told a dozen times in more modern formats. I know the ending, but I still get sucked in every time. SPOILER ALERT: they both die! How on earth is this considered romantic? Why does every love story end in such tragedy? What kind of message are we sending about love anyway? Can’t we just have a happy ending (no pun intended)?
- Fairytale – Cinderella is what every girl grows up wanting to be: a beautiful princess who meets her charming prince. I’m very confused about this one. First of all, how uncomfortable must it be to dance in a glass slipper? Then, how do you lose a glass slipper? You didn’t have one second to pick it up? Instead, you hobble along and waste time walking with one heel? Then Prince Charming finds the glass slipper and tracks down the princess it fits. Really? Do you know how long it would take to find a woman who fits a size 7 glass slipper? Wouldn’t it be easier to just ask if anyone knew who she was?
The best advice is to be present as your best present. Enjoy quality time with your loved one and show your thoughtfulness and appreciation.
