Valentine’s Day, a day celebrated on the fourteenth of February each year, is a day that many teenagers love… or hate. On this day, some couples express their love for each other with the exchange of roses, big fluffy teddy bears, or even a date night out. Others may spend their night alone having romantic movie marathons, or may even share this day with non-romantic partners, such as friends or family. So, how do high schoolers truly feel about this affectionate, lovey-dovey, romantic holiday? Do they love it? Or, do they loathe it?
Many students who love Valentine’s Day appreciate going on dates and receiving gifts. Traditionally gifts can range from a box of chocolates, a bouquet of flowers, stuffed animals, or symbolic jewelry. Nowadays it has even become a trend to build Lego flowers or other Valentine-themed Lego sets together. As we can see, Valentine’s Day is a day for appreciating the people that give us this special feeling of love.
“It’s my favorite part of the year to give and show my love to people,” Sophomore Kiana Watts said.
Though many students who are in relationships love this holiday, others who are single may disagree. Some describe Valentine’s Day as lonely, or may even feel F.O.M.O (fear of missing out) while watching other teenagers experience “young love.” Many high school students express concern about running out of time to experience a relationship in high school or generally just being appreciated by others.
“I’ve never had a Valentine so I don’t enjoy it, but I do love how it makes others happy,” Sophomore Kristiana Leafa said.
While many students have strong opinions about the holiday others are caught in between the idea of loving it and loathing it. Those without significant others enjoy watching people share their love for each other but still wish to have a romantic partner. A separate holiday by the name of “Galentine’s Day”, celebrated the day before Valentine’s Day, was made to express the love we have for our friends and non-romantic partners. This day can be considered a more inclusive day than Valentine’s Day, as it’s directed at sharing love with all sources. Still, some may question their opinion on this holiday due to its meaning.
“Why should only one day be devoted to giving gifts and heavily loving your partner or even friends when that should happen on the daily?” Watts said.
Most people have expressed that the reason they love this holiday, whether they have a Valentine or not, is because they get to see others being happy and loving. So, why as people do we consolidate this happiness into one day? Watts explained that she does not have a set opinion on this holiday because of that fact and that giving time, generosity, and loyalty is more important than giving gifts to signify your love.
“When someone tries to be a real friend, support you, and be there when you need someone the most, that’s love and that doesn’t happen just once a year, it happens every single day. Even if it’s in the smallest form, it’s still there,” said Watts. “I want people to know that love and kindness doesn’t just come from cute gifts, it comes from being able to be next to someone and value each other’s presence and honesty.”
Regardless of how you feel, Valentine’s Day is truly a day that people can share love and appreciation with those they care about, even without the material things. Everyone experiences that same loving feeling, by just watching others receive and exchange gifts. Based on responses, Valentine’s Day is definitely a holiday loved by many high school students. Sophomore Carly Reed said, “Love is easy to give and costs nothing. I love that there’s a day just to remind those that you love them! So definitely love!”