If You’re Feeling Lonesome on St. Valentine’s Day

I am a cynic when it comes to celebrating holidays like St. Valentine’s Day. I can’t help but think about consumerism and the multi-billion dollar earnings by flower companies and the lingerie industry. I resent the useless pressure placed on individuals who are truly in love, to act a certain way and expect certain things from their loved ones.

I don’t care for flowers or chocolates on St. Valentines Day — I care about them everyday. Singling out one day in the year to show your love seems a bit weird to me. It’s irritating to see how we all go along with it.

Romance, Feeling Lonesome & Sadness

Of course, I didn’t have this sarcastic take on St. Valentines twenty five years ago. There were plenty of times I was feeling lonesome and sad because there was no one to write me a love note and hold my hand as we walked towards the horizon. St. Valentine’s Day was torturous, especially as I imagined how everyone else in the world was paired up with a special someone, while I sat at home reading a book. Thanks to all the Spanish telenovelas I watched growing up, I internalized an unrealistic sense of romance, love and relationships. Being in a romantic relationship meant I was worth something. Being alone meant I was unwanted.

Reschedule St. Valentine’s Day

If you’re young and feeling lonesome today, on St. Valentine’s Day — get over it. Don’t waste time basking in self-pity. It will only make you look ugly (self-pity makes people look less confident, which in turns makes people look less pretty). Re-schedule St. Valentine’s for another day – a more convenient time for you.

Don’t believe the hype. Not everything that looks rosy is…well, rosy. Your time for romance will come for sure, and you won’t need to wait until next St. Valentine’s Day.

Life is happening to you as it should. Don’t you ever doubt this amazing truth.

Remember: There is no more powerful love, than the love you have for yourself.

Happy Self-Valentine’s Day!