Originally, the iconic day of love was not meant for what it is today. During the 14th century, Valentine’s Day was more of a “mating season” than it was about celebrating you or your partner’s love, according to History.com. 

The hate around Valentine’s Day seems to stem from jealousy of relationships or being envious of love. Really, the day can be spent with friends or doing something you enjoy. 

Ever since I was a child, this holiday was a blissful day. Granted, back then we all got to pass candies around and be hyped up on sugar, but it was a great day nonetheless.

Valentine’s Day does not have to be known as the “couples’ holiday.” There are many ways to celebrate! As a single person myself, I find the day enjoyable and make it all about loving myself. 

Trenton Smith, junior digital technology and culture major, said he does not mind Valentine’s Day but will not go out of his way for extraordinary plans. 

“I don’t think you need a person to spend the holiday with, it is overrated,” Smith said. “But spending it with friends and family makes it a great day.”

Family and friends have always made my Valentine’s Days enjoyable. Thanks to their love, I have never once been envious of not having a significant other.

However, the ultimate way to spend the day is doing things for yourself.

Self-love is the best love and I will treat myself accordingly; morning matcha, fresh flowers, going to the gym and Justin’s dark chocolate peanut butter cups. YES, I will be having a glorious day.

Aidan Leonard, sophomore athletic training major said that Valentine’s Day just straight-up sucks.

“I feel like it’s just a money grab, and at the same time this holiday isn’t really a big deal,” Leonard said.

In a way he has a point – companies put a lot of effort into making Valentine’s Day the biggest, most money-draining holiday of the year (besides Christmas). However, if you do it right, you will not spend a lot of money and can enjoy the day regardless.

Because we are having sunny weather in Pullman, consider going to a park, painting or even just taking a walk if you are in search of easy and inexpensive ways to spend the holiday.

If you have significant other, my recommendation would be some simple flowers. After all, it is always the small gestures that make someone happiest.

The one time I had a partner on this holiday, I received the most beautiful bouquet of flowers, and that sticks with me to this day as one of the best gifts I have ever received.

However, to my fellow singles, buy flowers for your friends (or yourself). It can make the day so many people hate a little more tolerable.

Embracing self-love is the best way to spend this controversial holiday.