aka Only a Neurotransmitter
This beautiful picture is the chemical diagram for love, the passionately falling for someone kind of love. It’s called oxytocin.
Along with other neurotransmitters, this lovely little chemical is responsible for that “special someone” feeling, for countless movies, and for happily ever afters.
Admittedly, love is wonderful; I have yet to meet someone who did not want to fall in love. That said, you don’t have to have surging levels of oxytocin this Valentine’s Day to have a wonderful day and make everlasting memories.
Remember those people we call friends? Do something with them! Go out, take pictures, eat expensive food, watch a new movie. It’s a different chemical responsible for friendship love, but it’s still love, it still counts.
If Valentine’s Day without a significant other is worrisome for you, please do not despair! Your time will come, I promise, but this year, don’t let it drag you down. Make plans with your “bf” (best friend, not boyfriend) or choose from the list below.
(Though some of these ideas are specific to Atlanta, I’m sure there are equivalent opportunities in whatever city you are in!)
1. Go watch a movie! That Awkward Moment came out January 31. Even though it’s a fairly familiar theme, you can’t ignore Zac Efron, Miles Teller, and Michael B. Jorden all in the same movie.
Endless Love is coming out on February 14 and proves to be a dramatic love story with an unexpected twist. Plus, part of it was filmed in the Agnes Scott College library.
2. It takes a special occasion to cash out for dinner at Kevin Rathbun’s, but I guarantee this is an acceptable day for it. Ironically, the cheaper things on the menu are the desserts.
3. Make an evening of it at Centennial Olympic Park ice-skating under the stars.
4. Have a show you’ve been meaning to start watching? Tonight is the night. Get some girlfriends and Netflix binge with your favorite takeout.
5. Climb to the top of the parking garage in Decatur and watch the sunset.
And if all else fails, just remember…