by Frances Taylor

Created on: February 02, 2010

Is Valentine’s Day a sad day for singles?  It certainly can be. It’s a day that calls attention to fact that while many of us are “we”, just as many of us are “just me.”

The hype over Valentine’s Day usually starts weeks in advance.  Pink ads filled with hearts start appearing in newspapers and magazines, “a diamond is forever’’ commercials start running on TV. The shopping mall displays are filled with suggested gifts for that special someone – sexy lingerie, flowers, teddy bears, expensive perfume and chocolates, contests to win a night for two at a hotel or casino. It can be a reminder that there are some folks out there having more fun than you. 

Then along comes your friend, who usually pretends Valentine’s Day doesn’t exist, but this time is in love for the first time in years and is looking forward to what sounds like a  terrific evening. Since you are really happy for her, you can’t rain on her parade with your ‘who cares about Valentine’s Day,’’ attitude, now can you? Of course not. You've got to listen to every detail. 

Valentine’s Day can be particularly hard on those who were once in a significant relationship and are no longer. Even if this fact might be an overall positive development, on this one day a year, it may sting just a little, particularly if you are relatively new to your single role. 

If you have been single for a longer term, a strategy is necessary if one is to avoid the hype of Valentine’s Day. It can involve simple steps, such as ignoring the “pink” aisle at the grocery store and all that candy on sale, and switching radio stations when the DJ starts talking about things to do with that special someone.

Valentine’s Day is a time for you and that special someone to show you care in a Hallmark approved gesture.  And isn’t that that the problem right there?  An uninspired or lackluster Valentine’s Day gift can detrimental to a relationship at a certain stage.  Singles at least don’t have that to worry about. 

In fact, one should not worry about Valentine’s Day at all. Ignore the hype and treat yourself to some candy hearts.

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