February 14 is dedicated to St. Valentine and the celebration of love and affection¹. However, the holiday itself doesn’t have a long tradition in Slovakia or the Czech Republic. That’s why a lot of people feel they don’t want or need to do anything special on that day. Go through the following ideas and decide with whom you agree or disagree the most and explain.

“Do you celebrate St. Valentine’s Day?”
Gabriel (19): “As for me, I don’t care about St. Valentine at all. But my girlfriend is totally into romantic stuff and the day seems to be a big deal to her. I love her so I buy her a rose (very romantic!) and let her pick out what we’re gonna do. Last year we went to see a cheesy² movie and this year I think we’ll stay at home with candles or so. It’s OK with me.”
Emma (16): “Some people say they don’t need any special day to tell somebody they love them. But I think it is always a nice opportunity to do something special for the person I love. So yes, I celebrate St. Valentine’s Day. But I don’t decorate the house or anything… just do something nice for the person I’m in love with!”
Laura (17): “You’re asking the wrong person. I don’t have a boyfriend so there’s nothing for me to celebrate…”
Andy (16): “People have gone mad. Can’t they see that it has nothing to do with love or anything of that kind? It’s all about commerce and making you spend money on stuff you don’t need. I’ve never celebrated St. Valentine’s Day and I never will. I hope the person I love accepts it. There are other ways to show somebody you care than buying flowers and presents and eating out in posh³ restaurants!”

Well, if you decide to express your emotions in written form, here are some good tips for what to include in your card:
– To love is nothing. To be loved is something. But to love and be loved is everything.
– Every time I see you I fall in love all over again.
– You deserve love, and you’ll get it.
– Thank you for being in my life.
– You are awesome and I’m lucky.

Now come up with a Valentine card design. Think of all the pictures that it can display and make a list first. (for example, two people holding hands, hearts, roses, etc.) Then choose the theme you like best and describe the card in detail. Add a message if possible.

Miroslava Dubanová

Vocabulary: 1 náklonnosť – zalíbení; 2 gýčový – kýčovitý; 3 nóbl