No, I don’t have a valentine. No, I’m not expecting someone to ask me to be his/her valentine. No, I’m not expecting to receive chocolate or flowers. And no, I’m not going to sit around being sad that I’m single on Friday.
Valentine’s Day has always been one of my favorite holidays. This is partly because I appreciate cute stuffed animals that have hearts as noses and because I’m a passionate chocolate lover. Mostly, though, it’s because I can’t find it in me to hate a day that celebrates love.
Here’s how a typical conversation goes when I express my excitement for Valentine’s Day despite the fact that I’m single:
“Why are you excited if you’re single?”I have a lot of love in my life, and I’m excited to share that and remind the people around me that I love them!
“But Valentine’s Day is about romantic love.”Well, yes. But since I don’t have a significant other to celebrate with, why can’t I celebrate the love I share with my friends and family? There’s a reason that Hallmark makes cards for parents, grandparents, and friends in addition to all of the mushy gushy romantic cards.
But isn’t that kinda sad?”Nope.
“Are you sure you’re not trying to cover up the fact that you’re sad and lonely by being overzealous about your love for a holiday that you can’t properly celebrate?”Yes, I’m absolutely positive. Thanks for your concern though.
There seems to be this idea that February 14th divides the world into two types of people: happy people who have a romantic partner and sad people who don’t. And of course, there’s absolutely nothing wrong with being happily taken on the infamous day of love. That’s great! But the sadness surrounding Valentine’s Day isn’t so great. If you’re single and dreading Valentine’s Day, my hope is that you’ll focus on all the people you love and who love you, celebrate that love, and eat some treats.
Happy Valentine’s Day from HCK!