Love yourself, others this Valentine’s Day

Staff Editorial

Today is the holiday everyone loves — or more commonly, loves to hate.

Candy hearts in hues of pinks and reds, notes dripping in sappy clichés and commercials encouraging viewers to go see the newest “Fifty Shades of Grey” movie are practically unavoidable for the first two weeks of February.

While it is easy to succumb to the bitterness rather than the sweetness of this holiday, we at The Daily Eastern News want to remind everyone that Valentine’s Day is not just for young couples who fall under the stereotypical “head over heels in love” category.

Valentine’s Day is a time to celebrate and share the love all of us have with whomever we want.

It is the time to reach out to your family members and remind them how their love has shaped you into the person you are today.

It is the time to gather with your friends and reflect on your relationships, remembering all the times their friendships have made your heart feel full.

It is the time to give ourselves the love we deserve. We can be our own valentines. It can be easy to forget self-love when we find ourselves swept up in the stress of school or are too busy focusing on not having a significant other during holidays like today.

Today, and every day, do not forget to take the time to give yourself and the others you hold dear the appreciation that is deserved. Whether it be by fully embracing the “Treat Yo ‘Self” attitude (thank you, “Parks and Recreation,” for that iconic episode) or sending a Candygram to a friend on campus, everyone deserves to be reminded of the impression they have left on someone’s heart.

You are perfectly capable of loving and being loved, whether you are single or in a relationship this Valentine’s Day. Do not suppress the love you have for yourself and for others; let it breathe and let it blossom. You never know how much a little reminder — or grand, cheesy and romantic gesture (whatever style you prefer) — could mean to someone.

We do not want to rush into things and say “love” just yet, but The Daily Eastern News wishes you all a happy Valentine’s Day.