It’s that time of year again, the day everyone dreads the most. No, not tax day, and not finals. Something even worse than a pop-quiz on a reading you haven’t done.

I’m talking about Valentine’s Day.

Here’s the thing: I’m not bitter. Really, I’m not. Just because I’ve never had a reason to celebrate Valentine’s Day doesn’t mean I should despise the day with every fiber of my being. I don’t. I don’t walk around wanting to pop the balloons and spoil the chocolate that’s emphasized by the rose tinted filter that comes with February 14th. I want to celebrate, but I recognize the complexity of my situation as I am, indeed, single.

But Valentine’s Day is about love. It doesn’t, however, specify what kind.

The first theory, the obvious one, is that it’s a celebration of romantic love between two people. It’s the most common interpretation, but the most obvious answer is not always the best answer. Of course, “best” is subjective, but for suspension of belief, let us examine all types of love as equal. If they’re all equally important, then the simultaneous celebration of them on a day of “love” makes sense. See? I do have a point.

The woes of celebrating something you don’t have can be tiring. It’s not the same as going to a wedding when you’re single. A wedding isn’t an empty day just made for greeting cards… well… (that’s a discussion for another time).

Valentine’s Day should have a reimagination so that people can celebrate with their friends! A Pal-entine’s Day! Gather your closest friends and go out for a nice dinner! Or remind them how much you care about them. There is so much overwhelming emphasis put on significant others by advertising and popular media, that friendship has taken a back seat. Well tell your best friend to get in the front seat and speed off to that fancy restaurant or that new movie you’ve been dying to see!

Old or young, make it another day in which you can celebrate your mom! Familial love! Is there ever a point where you should stop telling your mom how much you love her? No! And while this may be an overgeneralization, moms love to be appreciated. They’re people first and foremost, and it always feels great to be appreciated as a person. However for moms, the admiration can mean just that much more. If you live close, go see her, buy her some flowers and maybe a card (yes, they make Valentine’s Day cards for moms!) If you live far, give her a call! Take a half an hour out of another work day to just remind someone who cares loads about you how much you care about her.

Alright, drumroll, this is the one you didn’t see coming. Are you drumming? Duh duh duhdadadadadadadada da da daaaaaa….

SELF LOVE!

Crazy, right? Honestly though, we keep ourselves so incredibly busy that it’s commonplace to not check in with our bodies and with our minds as often as we should. Use Valentine’s Day as an excuse. Take a step back and just spend some time alone. Light some candles if that’s your move, finish that book that’s been staring at you from your bedside table for the last three months… Take yourself out to dinner and a movie! There’s no shame in spending time and money on yourself. You deserve it! You’re the most special someone you’re ever gonna have in your life, so make sure you’re giving yourself enough attention.

Above all, spread some love this Valentine’s Day. The world needs it.