Love is in the air at Kean University this Valentine’s Day
By Monica Sudfield | Published Feb. 8, 2017
Valentine’s Day is quickly approaching and before we know it, it will be upon us. Although many people celebrate the holiday by showing their admiration for their significant other, many people feel it is a pointless celebration. What some fail to realize is that Valentine’s Day is not only celebrated between couples, but among loved ones in general.
Whether you are in a relationship or not, it is safe to say that there is someone in your life that you love and that is what Valentine’s Day is all about – showing appreciation for the people you love and the people who mean the most to you.
“I think Valentine’s Day is bittersweet,” said Ymani Hawkins, a junior majoring in communication studies. “To some it may bring joy, happiness and romance while to others, it may bring depression, loneliness and vulnerability.”
As the holiday is associated with couples, it is common that some people who aren’t currently in a relationship may feel these negative emotions. A way to avoid these feelings, is to celebrate the holiday in a way that will bring joy to you.
“When I was single, I took myself on dates and went out with my friends,” said Hawkins. “In my opinion, the day should not be limited to those in relationships as the day is about love and celebrating it no matter who or what you love.”
“I think people just assume that Valentine’s Day is only for couples but it’s a day dedicated to love. You don’t really see people go out with friends or someone other than their significant other,” said Anam Naqvi, a junior majoring in psychology. “But I feel like there would be nothing wrong with taking out a friend or a family member.”
Naqvi even surprised her best friend one year with a box of her favorite chocolates. Hawkins and Naqvi clearly embrace the positives the holiday radiates, relationship or not. They associate the holiday with love in general and understand love is the main essence of Valentine’s Day and not only in a romantic way.
While others, like Odalis Uscanga, a junior majoring in public relations doesn’t understand why Valentine’s Day is even a holiday.
“Sometimes life just takes over and it becomes difficult to take a day to remember to celebrate with either your significant other or someone you deeply care for,” said Uscanga. “As we get older, our lives get busier and more stressful resulting in limited expressions of appreciation and love for the people in our lives who most deserve it. This is why many people argue that Valentine’s Day is irrelevant and your love for someone should be shown everyday through ordinary actions instead of big gestures one day a year.”
No matter what you decide to partake in this Valentine’s Day, make sure it is something that makes you happy. A day built around love should not create stress or sadness, but happiness and relief. Enjoy dinner with your significant other, catch a movie with your best friend or simply sit on your couch in pajamas and binge-watch a TV show on Netflix. Celebrate who and what you love this Valentine’s Day to ensure yourself an enjoyable holiday.
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