Another Valentine’s Day has come and gone and a collective sigh of relief has passed. Some call it “Single’s Awareness Day,” others say in derisive tones that it’s “a fake holiday made up by Hallmark to sell cards” and yet others still say that we should “love each other equally every day.”

Well, I have to be honest. I think all three of those are pretty dumb but for justified reasons. Valentine’s Day may not be everyone’s absolute favorite holiday, (it’s pretty lame in comparison to let’s say…I don’t know…Christmas, New Year's, any of the Jewish holidays especially if you live in southern New York), but it still has its own merits.

Yes, it sucks if you were alone on the one day that was seemingly made for couples, but you should consider this: it’s one of the few days per year that you can freely buy stuff for yourself and be openly selfish. Consider it like this: while everyone is either making dinner or going out somewhere to eat a fancy, overpriced meal, you can comfortably lounge in your sweats and unabashedly eat your weight in heart-shaped candy. Pretend that each tiny heart is the metaphysical manifestation of everyone who has ever hurt you in your life and that the more hearts you consume, the pain will subside even faster. I’m kidding obviously, or at least I hope that it's obvious, but sincerely, if you felt lonely, go treat yourself to something you’ve had no good reason to buy. It may not feel as good as some nice companionship but every once in a while, it’s OK to just do something for yourself.

And for the ladies out there, you could celebrate twice regardless of whether or not you have a partner, with Galentine’s Day being just the day before the actual holiday. As a day created by strong women for strong women, it’s a universal celebration of the camaraderie between ladies everywhere. Even though Valentine’s Day may not be so great without a partner, at least you can take solace in the fact that your ladies will be right there with you. Also, fellas, if it’s not clear, you can totally just do the same thing with your own close friends, Galentine’s Day is about being inclusive after all.

So who exactly is Valentine’s Day for, then? Without a doubt, most would say couples, but I have to argue otherwise. Valentine’s Day is a celebration of the relationships between people and you really don’t need a calendar-marked holiday to appreciate your friends. But sincerely, whether
you’re not with someone or if you’ve been with someone for years, take advantage of it. Go do something fun with people that you love and truly care about. Don’t make it about romance; make it about your admiration for others that you adore so much. If everyone saw Valentine’s Day like this, I doubt that anyone would truly feel alone. Unless you have no friends, in which case, you’re SOL.