Graphic by Joseph Ortiz
Valentine’s Day is a holiday that promotes the caring and celebrating of loved ones whether it be a husband or wife, boyfriend or girlfriend, or even just close friends. As little kids we remember Valentine’s Day as sharing goofy cards and sweet treats with classmates. However, as we grew older however, this trend slowly evaporated. No longer does everyone get a fair share of sweet treats and cute cards. Things are no longer the same and not everyone finds joy in the celebration of Valentine’s Day like they used to.

In an attempt to bring out the truly good and bad parts of the season of love, both students and faculty at Wakefield were asked various questions pertaining to their romantic history or lack thereof. Anonymously, they gave insight on their perception of Valentine’s day. Survey participants were asked if they found Valentine’s Day overly to be commercialized. Forty percent agreed that the holiday had lost much of its significant meaning. The trend appeared to be that more people are single on Valentine’s Day than in a relationship. Forty-four percent of those not in a relationship said that to celebrate they went out with a group of friends, while fifty-one percent chose to not take part in the holiday at all.

“I think there is too much pressure on single people now in today’s society to have boyfriends,” one responder said. “It can take the fun out of the holiday by thinking about having to be alone and single.”

Others complained of the embarrassing rejection they faced in the past at trying and failing to obtain a Valentine.

“I was at Jellybeans, as a young ten-year-old. My girlfriend at the time was sitting next to me, so I promptly wrapped my tiny little arm around her,” one responder. “Bad move I guess. She dumped me that night and I’ve never been the same since.”

Those that found themselves in a relationship on Valentine’s Day had more positive things to say about the holiday.

“I am currently in a relationship with my best friend,” said one lucky gal. “I would spend every second I could with him and I’m excited to spend this Valentine’s Day together.”

With love in the air, survey takers were asked if they would confess their true feelings for someone on Valentine’s Day. Results showed seventy percent said they would confess their true feelings while thirty percent found it strange or too cheesy to follow through with. Many of the students and faculty had romantic stories of past Valentine’s Days to share involving roses and candy.

“My significant other always used to kiss me under the stars since they knew I loved stars and them. It was so romantic,” one responder said.

There is no specific way one should celebrate Valentine’s Day. It is your choice in whether participating in the affairs appeal to you or not. Everyone has their own way of expressing their love and feelings.

“It really doesn’t matter how you celebrate Valentine’s,” one responder said. “ You should always tell those around you how important they are no matter the day.”