Valentine’s is a day dedicated to express love and affection towards that special someone. No doubt it’s become more and more commercialised over the years. It’s not the gift that should matter but the thought behind it. Since the time of the cavemen, the ultimate role that defined a man was his ability to protect and provide for his family.
This stands true till today and while some men are more romantic and extravagant than others, women know this: if your man is willing to protect and provide for you, romantic gifts or not, it’s his way of declaring that you are his chosen one.
Some don’t like the idea of commercialised and material gifts and find it to be too superficial and a waste of money. But ignoring Valentine’s Day and other specials days could very well land you in the dog box or couch for the next week. So think of some practical and original ways to express your affection if roses and hearts are not your thing. A unique spin on gifts is financial products and/or planning.
This can range from something small yet important to something large. It’s not what you say but how you say it that matters. So you could say: ‘Honey, we going to our financial planner or attorney for Valentine’s Day! but don’t be surprised if you get no supper for the next week.”
Or you could say: “Honey I really love and care for you and realise that I don’t have a Will or a properly designed one that will look after you should I no longer be around. Even after I’m gone I need you to be protected and provided for because I love you very much that’s why this Valentine’s Day I have decided to dedicate it to ensuring all the proper planning is in place for you!”
Another idea is instead of splurging on a gift that will probably be obsolete eventually, consider a tax free unit trust. One is allowed a maximum of up to R30 000 per annum, which works out to R2 500 per month, so if your spouse works and complains about taxes here’s a nice concrete and economical gift idea.
Also you can promise your spouse that you will contribute an ‘X’ amount towards a holiday every month till this or next December and she will have exclusive say in the vacation of her choice. In this way when you are due for a vacation, you do not need to cough up a large chunk of money as it will already be paid for when the time arrives and your spouse will have something special to look forward too.
Another different plan is life cover, as unromantic and dreary as it sounds. Especially if deep down you admit to yourself that you have not addressed your life cover needs.
When you are no longer around, don’t let the family pray the price for your selfishness or sheer laziness. I find that many wives are afraid to address the matter with their husbands but quietly worry about what would happen should they be alone to fend for themselves.
Remember money cannot buy love but it can ensure peace of mind and realism. Have a happy Valentine’s Day this Sunday and avoid the debt trap at all costs!
