Valentine’s Day Feelings: Moody or Enthusiast

Each year on Valentine’s Day, people either step up their moodiness or enthusiasm when it comes to the topic of love. As such, this is a great moment to highlight that 1) both versions are valid, and 2) it’s important to let people experience it however they prefer without judgment.

Let’s start with Moody Valentine’s

Ugh. Has it already been a year since the last one? This can be a day that reminds us of loss, loneliness, or unfulfilled expectations. For many, Valentine’s day may lead to thoughts of grief for relationships lost either mutually, platonically, poorly, or through death. Additionally, Valentine’s day can highlight the void of not having a committed partner despite efforts and hopes. Not only is the day lacking in the festivities of a personal celebration, but it also ramps up the in-your-face-ness of seemingly everyone else who is coupled up.

What about Valentine’s Enthusiasts

What better day than Valentine’s to show your partner and the world your love through images of flowers, chocolates, romantic gestures, and generally looking happy together? This is a social media day to memorialize just how perfectly in love you and your partner are–and proud of it. Even for those who don’t revel in the PDA of the day, the annual holiday does serve as an opportunity. With the expectation of love and romance, the day might prompt the usually reserved to pronounce love and commitment.  It may trigger couples to reignite a sense of connectedness and passion.

The goal is to be aware of and thereby more understanding of both sides. There is no need to change someone’s opinion about Valentine’s day nor to edit your own sentiments. If you want to take the day to wallow or parade, go right ahead! But be mindful that others may be approaching the day with a different yet equally suitable attitude.

A suggestion: make it a point to remind others and ourselves of the love we can regularly give and receive regardless of the date.