by Sahat July

Created on: February 09, 2008

In many several countries, Valentine's Day may become one of huge celebration, especially for couples, families, best friend, etc. But in Indonesia, not as that simple. Generally, 70% people in Indonesia are Muslim. This country has more than 16000 islands, multi ethnic, multi religion, and so many people live in poverty. Valentine's Day considered as western culture by some extreme Muslim group, and it is never been allowed to celebrate! In their religion, couples should not touch each other before they getting married. Better to avoid passion, and celebrating Valentine's Day will refer to decrease moral.

In big city like Jakarta, Valentine's Day celebrate with many traditions. There is no special tradition to celebrate it. Red roses and chocolate becomes a common icon of Valentine's Day. Shopping center often uses this moment to attract consumer. Not all people celebrate this Valentine's Day.

In many case, people here do not understand about spirit of this day. They just try to follow common ceremony and just do this tradition with their couple. Well, it is good, but in my opinion, every day should be Valentine's Day. Not just to celebrate Valentine's Day with your girlfriend or boyfriend, but also many people around you. In special case, it will be better if you show your love to the people who take care of you along your lifetime. It may refer to your parents, sisters or your brothers. Maybe they already know that you love them, but sometime it need some effort to show your love in different ways. Valentine's Day may become a good moment to give them special love from you.

Other way to celebrate Valentine's Day is giving something to unluckily people around you. You can give food, stationary, books or anything useful to the orphan, street children, beggar, etc. Absolutely it will means to them and worth to do. Don't you think that you have better life than they do? Moreover, you should share it guys! God will replace your kindness hundreds time than you do.

Apart from where this tradition adopted, western or eastern tradition, the most important thing to do in Valentine's Day is celebrating it in right and worth way. It is good to give your girlfriend or boyfriend hundred of roses or chocolate, but have you been doing the same thing to your families or unluckily people around you? If the answer is never, why you don't try it in the next Valentine's Day?

Learn more about this author, Sahat July.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.