Solved: Your valentine’s gift dilemma

Valentine’s Day is a time to express love and appreciation for those closest to us. Yet, consumerism has programmed us to find the best expression of our love in material things. That’s why, this day often comes with a lot of unnecessary waste—from plastic packaging to single-use decorations and disposable gifts. According to the National Retail Federation (NRF), American consumers are expected to spend a record $27.5 billion on Valentine’s Day this year, surpassing the previous record of $27.4 billion set in 2020!

Compare that with the most recent global poverty estimates from the World Bank, and around 719 million people survive on less than $2.15 a day.

27.5 billion spent in a day on consumerism, while 719 million humans survive on less than 2.15 dollars a day. Let that sink in.

Ironically, our expression of love in a throwaway culture also hints at the fleeting nature of life and the inconsistent relationships in our societies. According to Nationwide UK, the average relationship in twenties only lasts 4.2 years.

If life is merely the sum of moments we experience, a meaningful life is simply made of moments lived with mindfulness.

• How would you then want to spend your Valentine’s Day this year?

• How do you plan on making your expression of love meaningful for those that need it most?

• How would you use it to root yourself in values that aren’t fleeting?

• How do you plan on bringing mindfulness to the relationships you cherish?

We believe that if people commit to a journey of authenticity and purpose with their loved ones, they stand for something greater than themselves. The purpose binds them to stand through the trials and tribulations of life, bringing profound meaning to all they can accomplish together. It strengthens their bond, transforming challenges into opportunities. It fulfils them with a sense of abundance, enabling them to evolve and grow together. It is a state of being that can only be achieved through sharing love, not things.

If you are seeking to share a journey as this with your loved ones, give them a gift of impact this Valentine’s. For as low as CA$10, this gift echoes your love to over 50,000 underserved families striving to put food on their table.

In a world where every day is a battle, help love win over poverty on Valentine’s Day. Let your gift spread love, not waste.

Gift a lasting impact this Valentine’s Day!