All around the world people are anxious for the lovable holiday of Valentine’s Day. Some wish for that lonely pathetic day to rush by, while other “lovey-dovey” couples wish for it to last as long as possible.

Why is this day celebrated with so much love and hate? Perhaps it is because this day reminds people of that insufferable heartbreak they had to endure, and of something that is no longer in existence. Maybe it also reminds those of how powerful love can be, and the time spent with that special someone is all that is longed for on this special day. Valentine’s Day is a day of love, no matter if one is currently in that blissful state of mind, or if one wishes it never existed; February 14 is the day for the lovers.  

It is no shocker that society has its idea of what Valentine’s Day consists of: roses, teddy bears, candy, cards, and sex. With these factors held so high in everyone’s minds, how is one really supposed to feel about this day approaching? Should this day hold much value when it comes to determining the status of one’s relationship, or should it just be a day where a guy is revealing his long time crush to a young lady? Either way, there will be countless opinions about this holiday.

Kristen Lee, a sophomore pre-law major, has a valentine, and she views Valentine’s Day as a holiday that is meant to be more than a few dollars spent on a teddy bear. “Since society has made it such a superficial day, it is only good or enjoyable if you are with someone, or have a special valentine,” she said.

This will be Lee’s first time having a “real” valentine, so she is looking forward to this day, and what will come from it. February 14th does not mean a day of teddy bears and sweet candy for Lee, instead she simply wants a day that means something. “As long as the person has put thought into it, that is all I need. Something that we would not do on a regular day, kind of special, would be nice.”

One may think a male’s perspective of Valentine’s day would consist of buying a few teddy bears, maybe some candy, and of course sex. (At least that is what I think most college males think about when it comes to Valentine’s Day.) To my surprise many guys enjoy putting a smile on that lady’s face of whom they have a crush on, or for their longtime girlfriend; this is a day for them to earn brownie points.

Denzel Wynn, a freshman architectural engineering major, is one of those guys who enjoys pleasing his valentine. “Valentine’s Day is a good day, it’s a day for people to feel a sense of love, regardless if they are in a relationship or not.” Wynn is a guy who likes to wine and dine his ladies. When asked what would be his ideal Valentine’s Day he replied, “I just want to make her happy, I would try and look nice for her, take her to the mall to pick out an outfit, take her to her favorite restaurant. Basically I’d want to cater to her.”

Valentine’s Day is a day for both involved, to show their appreciation for one another. If a relationship is not yet established, this is a day for one to open the door of opportunities. If a relationship is established then Valentine’s Day is simply a day for the couple to reiterate their love for one another in a special way. I say Valentine’s Day should occur more than once a year, in a relationship that holiday should transpire ever so often; showing appreciation and love never gets old.

But for those single persons out there who are dreading the holiday that is vastly approaching, via Twitter, Rev. Run said it best: “If you are single, and Valentine’s Day seems depressing, you are close to your breakthrough! Great desire is the first step.” 

• Ashley Vaughn