It’s that time of year again. You walk down the third aisle at Wal-Mart and immediately see chalk-like heart shaped candies with scribbled words on them, cheesy Valentine cards displayed above boxes of chocolates, and cut out hearts pasted everywhere.
To some, this is “Single’s Awareness Day,” and to others, it’s simply Valentine’s Day. For the single ladies out there, it’s OK to blast some Beyoncé jams, eat a tub of ice cream and spend Valentine’s Day with your girls, but to those who are in committed relationships, it’s OK to display your love for each other to the world. It’s cheesy, it’s stereotypical, but it’s real.
Valentine’s Day is supposed to be a holiday where love is spread, appreciation for loved ones is shown, and all singles become tolerant of extreme PDA at the local Italian restaurant. If you’re in love, it’s okay to show it. If you’re single, it’s okay to show it too.
It’s time to stop the Valentine’s Day shaming, whether it’s toward singles who are constantly reminded that their love life is non-existent, or couples who are glared at by onlookers while they hold hands in public. This holiday is based around love, and that’s what needs to shine the most on Valentine’s Day. So take this day to truly appreciate your loved ones, whether it’s your best friend, your lover, your dog or that stuffed animal you’ve had since you were three.
Remember, be as cheesy as you want, as loving as you want, as affectionate as you want and as passionate as you want. Don’t let that glaring stop you from holding your significant other’s hand and don’t let that couple making out in the booth next to you discourage you. Enjoy this day as you enjoy any other day, except make it sweeter.