People fall into two general categories when Valentine’s day rolls around: those who have a valentine, and those who do not. The lovers in the first category tend to wait for Valentine’s Day in anticipation. Who doesn’t love to be showered with cards, flowers, and of course, chocolate?
However, for every love bird celebrating their adoration for someone, there is a cynic born from a person who, on any other day, feels content with their single status. Usually I fit in to the latter group. We roll our eyes at any public display of affection, pout when our friends receive their bouquet of roses, and throw ourselves single awareness pity parties.
It’s true, Valentine’s Day can make even the most popular person feel lonely if they have no one to share it with. But in reality, for singles, the day can still bring love.
The people who see Valentine’s Day as an annoying holiday that only highlights the fact that they do not have a significant other, need to look at the day with a new perspective.
This year, I realized that I did not need a boyfriend to buy me candy or send me cards, I could do it myself. And I did. I bought myself chocolate candies and even ventured down University Avenue to Cupcake, where I splurged on a few holiday treats.
I’m not alone. While men make up 73 percent of flower purchasers, 15 percent of women buy flowers for themselves, according to an online survey.
The most important thing I realized was that Valentine’s Day is about sharing love of all kinds. Although I do not have a boyfriend to celebrate with this year, I receive nonstop love from friends and family. My parents sent me a love-themed package in the mail, and my girlfriends and I treated ourselves to a Valentine’s dinner. So instead of lamenting my single status, I celebrated my love with multiple special valentines.
