An illustration shows two teens with differing perspectives on the merits of Valentine’s Day. The holiday can act as a painful reminder of isolation, or inspire feelings of appreciation for loved ones. Illustration by Lillian Sams
Former Digital Editor-in-Chief Owen Donnelly and former Illustrator Lillian Sams debate the pros and cons of Valentine’s Day in a throwback post.
Against Valentine’s Day: Former illustrator Lillian Sams
Valentine’s day. The most dread day of the entire year for single people around the world.
For those who actually have a significant other to celebrate this “special day” with, it can be a nice reminder of a rare connection between two individuals. But for the vast numbers who live their lives in solitude, the day only digs up memories of ugly break-ups, broken hearts and questions of self-worth.
The irritation of Valentine’s Day in the high school setting is rooted deeper than distracting gifts and balloons. Valentine’s Day bleeds into the rest of the day after school and into every teenager’s life in the form of Instagram posts, tweets and Snapchat stories.
For the vast numbers who live their lives in solitude, the day only digs up memories of ugly break-ups, broken hearts and questions of self-worth.
According to statistics from Facebook on Socialmediatoday.com, in 2016 in the US, 56% of all discussions about Valentine’s Day on Facebook happened directly on Valentine’s Day, rather than the surrounding days. On top of that, according to an article from the Pew Research Center, around 95% of teenagers have some sort of smartphone, and of those teens, 45% use the internet regularly. If nearly all teenagers have instant access to the internet and social media, there’s no telling how many sappy Valentine’s posts they may see in one sitting, let alone an entire day.
See post after post of peers spending quality time with their significant other can lead to feelings of FOMO (fear of missing out) among single teenagers. According to Newport Academy, a treatment center for mental health and substance abuse among teenagers, continued feelings of loneliness and isolation in teens can lead or contribute to issues like a pessimistic point of view or much bigger issues like depression.
For those who are fortunate enough to be in healthy relationships, the day is lighthearted and enjoyable. However, those who are on their own may see the day as salt on a painful, open wound.
Perhaps if the day were celebrated in less extravagant ways and single people were not led to believe they need a significant other to be valued, the day could benefit more people.
Pro Valentine’s Day: Former Digital Editor-in-Chief Owen Donnelly
High school is arguably one of the rawest and overwhelming times in one’s life. Students are constantly stretched thin between our rigorous schedule, Advanced Placement classes, sports and countless extracurriculars. It’s difficult, if not rare, for students to find time to sit back, breathe and intentionally honor the loved ones in our lives.
That’s where Valentine’s Day comes in. Once a year, for a single day, we are reminded of the important of esteeming the people in our life that matter to us.
Large displays of affection towards loved ones may seem strange or arbitrary to bystanders, but on Valentine’s Day (almost) anything goes. It gives a gentle reminder to celebrate people who are vital to use while allowing for a break from the judgement society places on significant shows of affection. Those who want to are allowed to go all out and lather their loved ones in gifts and appreciation, all while free from derision.
On Valentine’s Day, there’s nothing a couple can do that two good friends can’t (if you’re brave enough).
The most common argument against this beloved holiday is that it excludes those without a traditional monogamous relationship, but this couldn’t be farther from the truth. Whether it’s a parent, teacher or just a great friend in life, Valentine’s Day can be about celebrating any loved one, not just significant others. And what’s wrong with celebrating the people we love?
Furthermore, everyone can benefit from Valentine’s Day with deals on candy (and lots of it), dining experiences, beautiful flowers (avoid the stock ones, go for some natives), vacations and lots of other two-person themed events. The great thing about these events, however, is that they can be enjoyed by anyone with someone else in their life. On Valentine’s Day, there’s nothing a couple can do that two good friends can’t (if you’re brave enough).
The opportunity to share feelings of love and appreciation makes Valentine’s Day one of the best holidays in existence — one that should be celebrated in the masses. As I always say, we all need, want and have (hopefully) somebody to love.
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