I have always been a bit of a “romantic.” I love making gifts for my friends and family, and showing them special ways to say I love you. Unfortunately, being away at school is not the most conducive to this. I will say I know I have it better than many others, as I’m separated by a state instead of several countries; however, it still hurts all the same for me (Though, I do not mean to diminish the struggle that international students—or anyone else that is a significant distance from home—experience).
When I was home, I always did some form of gift for my family and friends. Throughout the years, it took shape in many ways, with one year being a treasure hunt set up with little origami gifts, and another with little heart creme brulees for my family to share. For friends, I usually brought them gifts to school. I would make little crafts using things such as Perler beads and embroidery thread. Anything I got my hands on would turn into a gift for those closest to me. All of these things, however, were primarily linked to when I was a kid. As I grew up, so did how I celebrated loved ones.
Now that I am older and have a boyfriend, I spend Valentine’s Day with him, but I still try to show those little extra bits of affection to everyone else. Now I’ll write handwritten cards: something that’s come to mean a lot to me. I think there is a beauty to it. To me, it is something tangible to remind me of someone. It reminds me of the person’s humor, sincerity, and overall joy that they bring me. So this year, I hope to write little letters to those closest to me. I hope that it stands as a reminder that though I am far away, I am always thinking of them and caring for them.
It’s small things like these that make me feel a bit more connected to home. On a day that celebrates love, it hurts not getting to see all of my favorite people, but let this be a potential precursor to those I love. Now, for everyone else, take this as a message to send a nice text to your loved ones and show your appreciation to those around you. Happy Valentine’s Day!
