February 14 of each year is celebrated in many countries, the feast of lovers. Formerly Western, Valentine’s Day, since it is about her, has entered, for a few years, in many habits of Africans. If this celebration, which dates back to ancient Rome, is an opportunity for couples to exchange gifts as proof of love, it is clear that this spirit has been misguided. At least, that’s what we’re tempted to say because business has taken over. We are no longer satisfied with simple roses. Some go so far as to offer luxury gifts such as cars or villas to their sweetheart. Others take part in social evenings organized by luxury hotels and other restaurants and nightclubs. Whether the celebration is sober or grandiose, will the Burkinabè be able to afford this luxury this year? Not so sure. Indeed, the country is going through one of the worst security crises in its history, coupled with economic gloom; all this in a sub-regional and international environment of high prices due in part to the war in Ukraine. In such a context, will citizens be in a festive mood? Nothing is less sure. The least we can say is that love is proof against insecurity and hardship. That is to say if we would not be surprised to see fewer lovers strolling through the streets of the capital Ouagadougou on the night of February 14, especially since this year’s party does not fall on a weekend. In any case, one thing is certain: until yesterday, there was no fervor around this party.
The wealthy lovers must be called to moderation and the less wealthy to reason
That said, you have to have faith in the adage that love can do anything. While objective and subjective reasons may prevent some from expressing their love on this occasion, love will not die in the land of upright men on February 14. Far from it. There will be people who will celebrate this feast. The celebration of Valentine’s Day in Burkina, in this period of unprecedented security crisis, could indeed be akin to a form of resilience, especially since history teaches us that Valentin was beheaded by King Claude II, because he would have refused to submit to his injunctions, in particular the prohibition to celebrate marriages in times of war. In any case, the celebration of this secular holiday makes it possible to forget a little bit the major concerns of life, but above all to cultivate more love and harmony within homes and, by extension, tend towards a society of peace. As for the rest, the wealthy lovers must be called to moderation and the less wealthy to reason. This is all the more important since many couples broke up on Valentine’s Day just because “Valentine” did not have enough to buy a present for “Valentine”. However, February 14 should not be the barometer of love since it is lived during the 365 days of the year. The fairer sex especially, must realize that Valentine’s Day is not the end of the world. Even in normal times, some are not interested in this party, especially in this lean period. It would therefore be a big mistake, especially for the “Valentine” who will not have gifts, to overwhelm their “Valentine” to the point of pushing them to disappointment. Strongly therefore that reason prevails!
” The country ”
