For most, Valentine’s Day is a day of celebration, candy hearts and flowers. For others, it may feel like a negative reminder of their relationship status.
Whether you are single or in a relationship, Valentine’s Day should be a day of celebration and reminder of how much love you have regardless of romance.
As we all know, love comes in many shapes and forms. This holiday, we should not focus on what we might receive, but on what we can give to someone else.
Ainsley O’Mara, 20, plans on spending a girl’s night with friends.
“It’s a little bittersweet, it definitely can feel a little lonely if you don’t have someone to share it with,” O’Mara said.
O’Mara plans on turning the traditional concept of Valentine’s day into a day where she can be with her friends.
As children, we were raised on the notion that only those in romantic relationships were worthy of celebrating Valentine’s Day. Now, that’s a thing of the past.
Elizabeth Sarneso, 21, takes on the more traditional Valentine’s Day approach.
“I’m not sure what I am doing yet because my boyfriend and I’s one year is a few days after and I am dancing in THON that weekend but I’m sure we’ll do something fun,” Sarneso said.
Most would assume that being in a relationship might make Valentine’s Day more memorable or special, but that is quite the opposite.
Sarneso explains that she never found anything particularly special about Valentine’s Day. She explains that the holiday revolves around gift-giving and presents, when she would much rather prefer an act of service.
Being in a traditional relationship on Valentine’s Day does not mean you need to spend it the way you think you’re supposed to. Spending the holiday in a non-traditional way does not dictate the amount of love in the relationship.
This day is for the people you love and not for anyone else to define.
Berenice Pierre, 19, plans to prioritize friendship this Valentine’s Day.
“This year, I’m taking the opportunity to spend the day with my best friend because while it isn’t romantic, the love that is exchanged in genuine friendship is so fulfilling and should be celebrated,” Pierre said.
Pierre plans to get together in one of her friend’s apartments, get matching pajamas, and share festive snacks. This is yet another example of how individuals not in relationships can participate in Valentine’s Day activities.
This is an example of how love is not limited to one type of relationship, but open to all.
Phoebe Conway, 21, plans to spend her Valentine’s Day with her boyfriend of 10 months.
Conway, like many others, is planning to go out to dinner with her boyfriend for Valentine’s Day. They organized to exchange small gifts in light of the holiday.
“Valentine’s Day to me is a day to celebrate the person or people you love, whether that’s a boyfriend or girlfriend, your roommates or whoever else,” Conway said.
Regardless of whether you’re single or in a relationship, spreading love to everyone is what Valentine’s day is truly about.
As we’ve gotten to hear the plans from other Penn State students, it is time as a society to reflect on our interpretations of Valentine’s Day.
This is the time for celebrating with loved ones and appreciating the love you have. Have a happy and safe Valentine’s Day!