We all get an idea of love from someone or something in life. For some, it's whatever Nicholas Sparks movie has just hit the big screen, others it may be a book or music they get the idea of true love from. For me, it’s my parents. Every year when February hits, there become different types of people. There are the love birds, those who are in relationships currently and very happy. They spend time and money on gifts and date ideas for their significant other. They are full of joy and happiness on Valentine's Day. They become on a Valentine's Day high and they aren’t afraid to show it. Then, we have those who aren’t in a relationship. They spend their Valentine's Day hating those from the previous category. They watch movies that make you cry and probably use the phrase, “The only men I need in my life are Ben & Jerry,” whilst shoving spoonfuls of ice cream into their mouths. Lastly, there are the people that I would like to categorize myself with. We as individuals think of Valentine’s Day as just another day, and a day to tell everyone in our life how much we love them. For this outlook, I would like to thank my parents.

For 25 plus years, my parents have been side by side and I am now very thankful for that. Mom and Dad, thank you for showing me that true love exists. Thank you for sticking through the hard times I now know happen in relationships. Thank you for never letting me hear you argue when I was little. Thank you for daily family hugs. Thank you for showing me what it takes to be truly happy with someone. For my whole life, I have seen two very different personalities work. I’ve seen two people who have vowed to be there through everything keep that promise. Not only have I seen you as my two parents I have seen you as two best friends who just decided to do life together forever. Now, an adult myself, on Valentine’s Day, I’m OK with not being in a relationship, because you have taught me that I am the one person that can make myself the happiest. You have taught me that the right person is out there for me and that one day I will find them. Mom, you have taught me that waiting around for the right person, even if it takes them forever is worth it. Dad, you have shown me how a real man treats women. I would be so lucky to end up with someone just like you.

So, this Valentine's Day, I think we should all be content with life in its simplicity. Be in love with yourself, treat yourself to a great day and be happy knowing that the perfect person is out there for you if you wait for them.

Happy Valentine's Day.