This previously ran in our February 2023 print issue. 

I don’t know why, but something about Valentine’s Day just calls to the hearts of lovers and romantics around the globe. You’d think it would’ve gotten old and lame and people would stop celebrating it, but nope, it still lives on. Considering this holiday has existed for nearly 700 years, one would imagine it would’ve faded away as times change. 

A lot of people probably wish this holiday didn’t exist. Some actually get angry over this little holiday, arguing that it’s pointless and a waste of time. Why is this one random day in February so special? 

It’s the middle of winter and everyone is a bit tired of the short days and cold weather, but then the second week of February comes along. There’s nothing actually special about Feb. 14. It’s just another day in a rather bland month, but humans have a tendency to make something beautiful out of nothing. I think that’s what makes the holiday so fun because it’s a bit nonsensical and sweet.    

Don’t get me wrong, it’s a pointless holiday, but that’s what makes it fun.

This particular day has become the symbol of love and encourages people to spend money on chocolates and gifts for their loved ones. I never really understood the hype of it all. What exactly makes Valentine’s Day the holiday of love? 

 Stores see February on its way and suddenly mark up all the prices for chocolates, sweets, and anything pink. It’s sort of hilarious watching a $2 candy bar double in price, but I can’t imagine it’s funny for people who take the holiday seriously. 

Though I definitely think there’s money to be made from this definitely-a-Hallmark holiday, the best part is watching other people genuinely enjoy it. I’ve never understood the unironic hype of Valentine’s Day, but I enjoy when other people rush off to buy their partner chocolates or gifts in a show of affection. It’s cute, really. A tad bit corny, but sweet, just like the holiday itself. 

I guess I can understand why they decided February, of all months, would hold the national holiday. It’s the middle of the school year and the weather’s absolutely dreadful. After the end-of-year celebrations, we come back to school and we’re just stuck with dark, short days and a withering appetite for snow that probably won’t come. 

We all just need a little love these days, whether it’s from another person or from yourself. A typical Valentine’s Day probably includes spending time with your partner and sharing the love. Oftentimes people think the day is just for romantic love, and I think that’s a waste of a perfectly good holiday. 

Everyone should be able to celebrate Valentine’s Day, even if they’re not in a relationship. 

Personally, I’m kind of over the whole being-in-a-relationship thing, and it’s not because I’ve been scorned or whatever. It’s just not my thing and never really has been. Valentine’s Day looks very different for someone like me; who doesn’t have someone to throw all of my love into, so I put love towards myself. 

For me, Valentine’s Day is all about celebrating love and loving myself is part of that. Everybody needs a little self-care every now and then, and by the time Valentine’s Day rolls around, I’m sure we’re all exhausted and dying for a break. 

On the fated day, I kick back and take it easy, enjoy my own company, and put my brain on autopilot. By far, the best part of Valentine’s Day doesn’t even happen until the holiday’s over. 

On Feb. 15, all of the unsold Valentine’s Day candy goes on sale as stores try to get rid of what’s left. For people like me, this is the perfect opportunity to stock up on half-priced candy and treat myself, while not spending too much. 

I’m like a Valentine’s Day vulture, waiting in the wings for the discounted candy. Nothing makes me feel more loved than a bunch of chocolate. It’s the cure to every possible issue and continues to be my lifesaver. 

It’s not exactly the healthiest option, but we should all be allowed to indulge every once in a while, especially around a holiday that markets candy like golden tickets. Not to mention it feels good to spend money on myself as like a little reward for lasting this long. It certainly helps with the chronic burnout. 

Regardless of whether you think Valentine’s Day should be a holiday, it is. People are going to argue about it like they do every year. It doesn’t really matter in the end because the holiday doesn’t care how you feel about it. Each year it will come around, and I’ll get my half-priced candy. 

People in a relationship are going to celebrate it with their loved ones and maybe this year, if you’re single like me, you’ll take the time this Valentine’s Day to give yourself a little love too.