Valentine’s Day Alternatives

As Valentine’s Day draws close, love is in the air. Stores all over the country are stocked to capacity with cards, teddy bears, and other gifts designed to show that special someone how much they are appreciated.
To couples, February 14 is a wonderful day full of love and bliss; but for those who are not in a relationship, Valentine’s Day can be very stressful.
Some people actually dread Valentine’s Day because they feel it is unimportant to them if they are not in a relationship.
“My Valentine’s Days are always messed up, so for me this year its just going to be another day on the calendar,” said Kandice Pimpton, sophomore marketing major from Dallas.
What many people fail to realize is that Valentine’s Day does not have to be stressful or dreaded.
According to Laura Slap-Shelton, Psychology Doctor of Self-Help Magazine, “One way of turning the difficulty of Valentine’s Day around is to label it as a time for opening the heart.”
There are many alternatives to celebrating this holiday, even if single.
“If there is no one around to shower you with love, shower yourself,” said Tara Davis, senior biology major from Opelousas.
Travel to the nearest mall, Wal-Mart, or specialty store and stock up on bubbles, candles, and lotions. Relaxing with a soothing bubble bath is certain to lighten up any mood. Fragrances are also available for men.
In addition, there are a number of events going on in the city that do not require dates. There is a poetry reading at the Fox & Hound on Valentine’s night. Movie theaters are also open, and if the comforts of home are too appealing, for entertainment, make it a Blockbuster night.
“Me and my roommate are going to get together with a group of girls in the dorm and watch girlie movies Waiting to Exhale, The Wedding Planner, My Best Friend’s Wedding, etc…”said Shatona Bernard, sophomore biology major from St. Martinville.
“A person does not have to be in a relationship on Valentine’s Day to be happy,” Bernard said.
“I am going out alone and try and meet some new people,” said Walter Kornegay, freshman biology major from Little Rock, Ark.
“Some of us can not cherish the moment because the ones that we cherish are so far away, “said Kornegay, whose girlfriend lives in Arkansas.
If going out alone is not an option then get a group of single friends together and have a party. That way everyone will get the opportunity to mingle with other single people.
“For Valentine’s Day, my friends and I are going out and having fun together,” said Lalitta Harry a sophomore business major from New Orleans
However Valentine’s Day is celebrated, remember to have fun. Go out with friends; watch a good movie or just plan on a pampering bubble bath. There is no need to stress over “just another day of the year.”