While most will cuddle-up and celebrate valentines’ day, there are among us who would bitterly stay at home, work as usual or sleep it over. It is that day in the year when singles are reminded loudly of their predicament amidst the silent gazes of lovers. It is the day when couples are in and singles are out.
To those who remain partner-less, valentines’ day is an ordinary day. But admit it or not, it is a special day. While it is not an official national holiday as mandated by law, its specialty lies on how it spontaneously affect people to activities that relates to love, or exactly speaking to romanticism. Whether you maybe single or not, yes, there is a romantic in all of us.
Single people would have a hard time ignoring valentines’ when it permeates the ambiance of the day. Thanks to the popular media spawned by commercial interest, it moved us to celebrate a feast themed with love and romance that had become a tradition.
It is ironic however that a celebration that has love for its theme makes others feel lonely and become more aware of how unfortunate it is to be single. While lovers are unabashed in their public display of affection, singles looked on with envy or pretend not to see. Amidst the crowd of couples, the singles stand-by the sidelines inconspicuous. In their anonymity they reminisce lost love and the heartaches while feeling the absurdity of the moment.
With all the triviality associated with the celebration of valentines’ day, we nonetheless can not dismiss that love itself is not trivial. Love afterall is the most powerful force in the universe. But we have trivialized it by limiting it to the concept of sex and consensual relationship. No wonder, motels and lodging places which cater privacy are fully-booked on this day.
I am not against lovers. Neither my intention to spoil the precious moments of those in love. Despite my criticism, I wanted to believe that valentines’ day is truly a celebration of love-- of true love. Love should not be exclusive. While romanticism is a valid expression of love between lovers/ couples, let us not forget that that love you share with each other has the potential to create love to a greater extent. Family, relatives, friends and even strangers who may feel alone can benefit from your love by sharing time, give an extra hand or just lend your presence in their desolation. Oftentimes, a simple but thoughtful act, a reassuring word or a brief moment of kindness can give hope to those who otherwise had lost meaning because of loneliness.
To those who are aware and bothered by their singleness, ask yourself why? Do you feel unloved or unlovable? Are you worthy of love? Are you capable of love? There are perhaps other questions that may come-up within the process. You may discover some inadequacy or latent issues about yourself that you have to finally confront to be able to receive love and give love back. For all it is worth, to know yourself and be aware of who you are may be the greatest discovery you will ever take. And love may very soon find its way to your heart.
Have a meaningful Valentines’ Day! ... or have a contented Singles' Awareness Day!
