Valentine’s Day, the holiday of love—whether that be with yourself or with others—is a holiday filled with much joy! Though, there is much controversy on whether Valentine’s Day can only be celebrated if you have a valentine.

Many people disagree on celebrating only if you have a valentine. A student said, “It is just about loving, it does not necessarily have to be a significant other.”

I can second that because back in elementary school, we would all celebrate Valentine’s Day. We were taught to just love ourselves and everyone else!

Also, there is something called “Galentine’s Day,” a holiday that girls and their friends can celebrate together. This shows that a “valentine” isn’t really a necessity.

Personally, I think that this season is all about love, and nobody should be excluded from receiving it, whether that being from a partner, themselves, family, or even friends. Everyone has an opportunity to be loved and in this season, love is all around us!