As Valentine’s Day quickly approaches, if you find yourself single and alone, do not fret. Valentine’s Day is a day of love, and love comes in all different forms. As a single person on this day, take some time to show how much you care about all of the good fortune in your life. Here are just some of the people and things to show appreciation for and ways in which to do it:
Love of Family
As a college student away from home, you may often find yourself busy with work for a class or focused on the internship or job search. It is important to not forget those who have supported you along the way and were your rock to lean on in both good times and bad in order to get to where you are now. If you can, go share a meal with your family on Valentine’s Day or have a family game night. Likely, since Valentine’s Day falls on a Wednesday, this might not be possible. However, a simple phone call can be enough. Tell your parents how much you love them and send them flowers or chocolates to go that extra step to show how grateful you are for them. If you have siblings, do not forget to include them and tell them how much you miss them. If you can not see them in person, you could still hang out online by playing a multiplayer video game or watching a movie through a watch party.
Love of Friends
Be it old friends or new friends, Valentine’s Day is the perfect time to show appreciation for them. Be it reconnecting with a friend you have not seen in a long time, or hanging out with friends at Stevens, this can be an enjoyable time for both groups involved. In the area, a group of friends can find many activities to do. Taking a stroll on the waterfront can be refreshing and offer the opportunity for friends to talk and catch up. Going out to eat on Washington Street is another great way for you and your friends to spend their time together off campus. If your group of friends are looking for something more unique, an escape room could be an interesting bonding experience for you and your friends as you try to tackle puzzles together in sixty minutes.
Love of Community
This kind of love can take on a few meanings including love of the local community, love of country, or love of the environment. Volunteering can demonstrate that you love the world that we are in and want to help make it a better place. Around Hoboken, there are several places to volunteer or donate to that will help adults, children, and animals in need. The Hoboken Shelter located on Bloomfield Street and the Hoboken Boys and Girls Club are just a few places that are in need of help. Additionally, participating in community cleanups can help to beautify the area and make it a safer and healthier place for people to live in.
Love of Self
This may be the most important kind of love, as being able to love oneself enables one to love others. In a fast-paced world, it can be easy to forget sometimes to dedicate some time to self-care. Make sure to make the most of Valentine’s Day by setting time aside to do something that you enjoy. Take this time to eat your favorite food, watch your favorite movie, read your favorite book, workout, or do something else that you enjoy. If there’s something that you have been wanting to do but have not had the time, make this day the reason you were finally able to get to it.
On this day of love, spread the love and count your blessings. Happy Valentine’s Day!