Email Article

Printable Page

Valentine's Day Isn't Just for Romantic Lovers

By Editorial staff, The Hilltop
Black College Wire

Once again, Valentine's Day has rolled around and singles are preparing to spend a day moping around and feeling depressed. However, why not try something new this year? If you are single or even if you are not, this Valentine's Day should be extended beyond the expected interpretation of the holiday. Instead, we should take this opportunity to say "I Love You" to others in our lives that deserve to hear it.

Because many people confuse love with lust, Valentine's Day is often a day when men and women devote time, money and attention to those with temporary positions in their lives. Instead of, or in addition to buying gifts for the girl or guy in your life, try sending a card or gift to your mother, father, grandparent, or best friend. Make it a priority to let all those you love know how you feel on Friday.

Valentine's Day is a day for lovers. However, it is important to realize that there is more than one type of love among humans. Eros is the type of love that is the stuff of romance novels and the movies we frequent each weekend. It is a physical type of love, but can be non-physical in nature. Philios love is another type of love that is sentimental and passionate. Storge love is a third type of love that is more like maternal love. Lastly, agape love is a selfless love that is shown through behavior towards the beloved.

Keep these meanings in mind this Valentine's Day as a reminder that love is multi-dimensional and certainly not limited to your significant other, or lack thereof. This day can be one in which you exercise agape love to all those who mean something to you. Show them how you feel because life is too short not to.

Students at Howard University published this as an editorial in The Hilltop.