As some of you know, I used to live in Japan. My first Valentine’s Day there was quite a revelation. See, on Valentine’s Day in the land of the rising sun, the girls give the boys they like, chocolates. Plus, they give "obligation-chocolates" to their bosses, superiors etc.
I wasn’t too impressed with this - I mean, what about reciprocation? What about romance? Then I learned about White Day (March 14). This was apparently created by retailers "to help assuage the guilt feelings of those poor obligated males who received chocolate on Valentine’s Day". One White Day, the giftees can return the favor by giving chocolates and gifts to the girls/women they received presents from.
So, do you like the Japanese custom? Or do you prefer the traditional version? And while we’re on the topic, what would make you happy this Valentine’s Day? A hunk gift-wrapped on your doorstep…or maybe that’s just me 
I’ve got a friend who lives in Japan, so I heard about this from him. I prefer our custom, though I really wish that more focus would be put on not just our beloveds, but our beloved friends. So many people who aren’t in relationships feel lonely and left out on Valentine’s Day, I think it’s a great custom to send Valentines to all your friends, too, to let them know that you care.
Comment by Yasmine — February 5, 2007 @ 11:48 am
Yasmine, I totally agree. It’s a day where you can be totally corny (in the best way) and no one will mind
Comment by Nalini Singh — February 5, 2007 @ 3:52 pm
I prefer our customs to Japan’s, Nalini, but I like Yasmine’s suggestion to include our friends, yet for me, that would be another time of year that I didn’t have time to get cards out.
Anyway, my hunk gave me a 2007 Honda CR-V in Tango Red Pearl for Valentine’s Day, so I got mine … and he got his.
Comment by Annette Blair — February 5, 2007 @ 4:16 pm
I far prefer own customs–I hate having to shop for men on any holiday! Besides, I like being spoiled…with lots of chocolate:) Hey, I need an excuse to eat it–with my new diet, it’s a no no. But not if its a holiday or gift!
Comment by Alyssa Brooks — February 5, 2007 @ 4:51 pm
I think that’s really cool, what a different way of doing things. It seems so quirky, I love it!
Comment by Maria Duncan — February 5, 2007 @ 5:11 pm
That’s definitely different. I think I like our way though. Don’t have to wait so long for the chocolate
Comment by Lis — February 6, 2007 @ 6:20 pm
Wow, I am glad they get the March day to make up for Valentine day.
In my culture we mainly exchange cards and flowers on this day. Here on the state is more about commercialism that something else.
Comment by Barbara — February 7, 2007 @ 11:41 am
Wow, I am glad they get the March day to make up for Valentine day.
In my culture we mainly exchange cards and flowers on this day. Here on the state is more about commercialism that something else.
Comment by Barbara — February 7, 2007 @ 11:44 am
Nalini, this was fascinating to learn about…You know what would be great? Making Valentine’s Day the day we give those we love dark chocolate and White Day (3/14) a day we all give each other white chocolate. Never a bad thing to build a holiday around chocolate.
Luv,
Cleo
Comment by Cleo — February 7, 2007 @ 2:05 pm