CAMMIE BAGLEY
Living/Athens Editor
Feb. 14 is a day that is loved by some yet hated by others. Typically, people who are in a relationship describe it as a day filled with love and romance, while those without a significant other usually prefer to ignore its existence altogether.
But, just because someone doesn’t have a boyfriend or girlfriend doesn’t mean that he or she can’t enjoy a day dedicated to the consumption of chocolate and receiving enormous teddy bears.
According to history.com, there are several different legends that date back to the fifth century explaining the origins of Valentine’s Day. Despite the different story lines, almost all of the legends reflect romantic love, but there is no rulebook stating that today’s society has to follow an ancient tradition of only celebrating romantic love on Valentine’s Day. Instead, this can be a day to express love for a mom, best friend, cousin or even oneself. Here are just a few ideas for celebrating a non-conventional Valentine’s Day:
1. Invite a group of friends for a night out: Going out for Valentine’s Day can be just as fun, if not more, with a close group of friends than it would be with a significant other. Round up a bunch of single people and go out for dinner, drinks and a movie. Show love to a great group of friends who deserve it by letting loose and having a night full of delicious food, good entertainment and great company.
2. Give a gift to a loved one: A small act of kindness can bring a smile to anyone’s face. Whether it be one’s mom, best friend or even a stranger that looks like he or she needs a pick me up, go out and buy a cheap card or small piece of candy just to show them that someone cares.
3. Treat yourself: Be independent and don’t wait around for someone else to bring you a gift. Go out to a favorite restaurant, watch a classic movie or go indulge in a delicious dessert.
Dairy Queen will be selling a special “Singles” blizzard this year in which they are encouraging customers to “Break the Cliché.” The treat includes cocoa fudge, peanut butter cups and salted caramel truffles, which is a perfect way to show yourself some love on Valentine’s Day.
4. Ignore the holiday altogether: For those who really despise the day and refuse to participate in anything related to love, make a point to neglect its existence throughout the day.
Don’t watch any romantic movies, listen to any love songs or even tell anyone “Happy Valentine’s Day.” There’s nothing wrong with opting out of something if someone doesn’t enjoy or see any value in it.
5. Fall in love with something, not someone: Being single shouldn’t trigger negative judgments. Our culture tends to see single people as those who are in limbo, just waiting for their one true love to come along. But, keep in mind that no one needs a significant other. And, believe it or not, not everyone wants one either.
For those who are happy with themselves and don’t need to feel completed by another, find a new hobby or passion to fall in love with this Valentine’s Day, rather than focusing on finding someone to spend it with.
Valentine’s Day doesn’t have to be a holiday that single people disgust. There are plenty of ways to spread love that don’t require having a boyfriend or girlfriend to do so. Consider trying out one of these options as a way to enjoy or ignore Valentine’s Day this year.
Just remember, in the words of Carrie Bradshaw, “Being single means that you’re taking your time deciding how you want your life to be and who you want to spend it with.”