Ashley Orozco/Contributing Writer
Here’s an unpopular opinion: I love Valentine’s Day.
No, not the movie starring every celebrity you could think of. I’ve never had a “valentine” per say, but that doesn’t give me (or anyone, really) reason to be so bitter towards perfectly happy couples around this time of year.
My girlfriends, like many who are single, are only reminded of just how single they are as Valentine’s Day looms nearer. Just last week they were complaining about “not having a man” in their lives and therefore no one to take them out or buy them something nice on Valentine’s Day. When I chimed in that I had surprises for them they were less than grateful.
Gee, thanks.
I realize that the commercialization of the holiday has led almost everyone to believe that if you’re single, come Feb. 14 you will never find love. I beg to differ.
Almost everyone who will be spending this lovely day with a significant other was once single. Just because “the one” hasn’t shown up on your doorstep yet doesn’t mean you’ll have to take the black.
My grandma always called Valentine’s Day “el dia del amor y amistad” which literally translates to “day of love and friendship.” Because this notion of Valentine’s Day has always stuck with me, I don’t associate it with having to be in a relationship.
In elementary school we gave cards to the class, not just our crushes. It’s not about having someone to cuddle with; it’s about spreading the love.
I like to spoil my friends. I like making baked goods and putting them in my sisters’ lunch boxes. Sue me.
You anti-Valentine’s Day folks are probably arguing that the only reason I waste my time and money is because it’s an “evil corporate holiday.”
And to that I say, so what?
Almost every holiday has been skewed in some way from its original intention. Atheists still celebrate Christmas and college students still go to the beach and get wasted in remembrance of those who have died fighting for our country.
At the end of the day, Valentine’s Day is what you make it. I love seeing couples in love (sans the PDA, please) and getting my Martha Stewart on.
If you want to sulk in your singleness all day, go right ahead. But know that grumbling around like the famous comic strip character Cathy won’t make you any less single so enjoy it for what it is.
Send your grandma a card, take out your younger siblings, give your friends the Avengers cards you got on sale at Target (even if they won’t appreciate it) and just show the people you care about how much you really love them.
Still not convinced? Look on the bright side: come February 15th all that chocolate will be on sale.
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