The Quadrangle

Issue date: 2/16/05 Section: Features

Valentine's Day is both one of the most anticipated and dreaded days of the year. For some, it is a special day to celebrate the bond between loved ones, but for others, it is a reminder they are single. Luckily, here at Manhattan, there are a variety of activities planned for this day that cater to both the couples and the unattached.

For those in a more serious relationship or who are looking to make a big gesture, Manhattan hired a florist to provide bouquets of roses, which were delivered to locations both on and off campus. One could also send carnations and notes to anyone. Another option was to send a bag of Hershey's kisses for free, or to even decorate a heart-shaped brownie for that special someone. Of course, one could do any of these things for a friend as well. Clearly, there is a wide variety of options for both couples and single students to show everyone in their life that they care.

For many couples out there, Valentine's Day marks one of the most special days of the year-a day when they can celebrate the uniqueness of their love and focus on their significant other. In a world as busy as today's it is difficult to find time to do something truly special for the people that we love the most. While in many ways Valentine's Day has become a highly commercialized marketing frenzy, the real meaning of this special day remains the same, if we look hard enough. Rather than spending a lot of money on some silly stuffed bear that has a million look-alikes, write a letter or make something that holds a special meaning.

For those that still are entirely opposed to the idea of Valentine's Day, you are not alone. In fact, there are a variety of holidays celebrated on the same day under different names, but all with the same goal: to show the world that Valentine's Day may as special as everyone makes it out to be. Katie Meyer, a freshman says "Valentines Day is a ridiculous holiday created by corporate America to find another way to profit from the unsuspecting American citizen. Long live singles day!" 14 February is also known as SPAD, or Single Persons Appreciation Day for many. Rather than sulking over the fact that they are not in a relationship, those celebrating SPAD spend time with friends, and show everyone around them how much they care. Rather than red, the color of SPAD is navy blue, and cards are sent to everyone in someone's life, telling them just how special they are.

Oftentimes, those who are not in a relationship feel forgotten or lonely on this day, but this holiday is truly one where we can all show our appreciation for everyone in our lives. Valentine's Day is a celebration of love-whether that is love between friends, family, or significant others. Perhaps the most important thing to remember about this day is that Valentine's Day is not just for couples. It is a day to show everyone just how much you care. Whether your valentine is a significant other or friend, it is important to let everyone that matters in your life know that you love and care for them.

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