It’s that time of year again. The holiday of kisses, heart shaped candies and “I Love You” balloons. That time in the middle of winter when lovers of all ages get to show their affection towards one another.  It can be heavenly or disappointing depending on one’s current relationship status. But more so than not, this holiday is one that should not be made such a big deal.

Feb. 14 is just another day. It shouldn’t be made a huge deal if people are in relationships. Everyone deserves to be loved like it’s Valentine’s Day every day, not just once a year. This day seems to cause more problems than to make hearts happy. It’s transformed from a day of honoring a love between two people into a somewhat mandatory “date night.”

Valentine’s Day only brings up unnecessary feelings of desire. Those who are single only feel they need a valentine to feel loved. Or the opposite route, they have to try to convince everyone around them including themselves that they are perfectly fine in their loneliness.

Senior Moira Quinn said, “Personally after 18 years of being valetineless I think we should focus more on loving ourselves and buying chocolate for ourselves then expecting them from others.”

And those who are in a relationship look forward to this day. Why? To be reminded how much they are loved by their partner over dinner and flowers? It just doesn’t make sense. Don’t use this holiday to brag about personal worth or commitment to a partner. Americans also spend quite a bit of money on this holiday to show their lovers that they really care. According to cnn.com the average estimated amount of money that people spend on Valentine’s Day is $130.97. That is an outrageous amount. You shouldn’t have to spend near that amount of money to show your love. You can be romantic without spending a dime.

Being happy is absolutely no crime at all, I appreciate the spirit of the day. Celebrating love has a positive influence on the world. However, when this day’s small gestures of love turn into a ball of stress is where the line should be drawn.

When Feb. 14 rolls around this year, just remember it’s no big deal. Because even if one feels alone now, it’s only temporary. Find that special someone that will love you like it’s Valentine’s Day every day, not only on Feb 14.