By Audrey Ze//
Valentine’s Day is the annual celebration of love associated with romantic gestures, gift-giving, and expressions of feelings between couples in many countries worldwide.
But for those without romantic partners, the holiday can be a celebration of self-love and independence, students and faculty say.
Sophomore Shanyah Francis said she practices self-love by maintaining boundaries. Firm boundaries can improve mental health, nurture stronger relationships, and create a deeper understanding of oneself, she said.
Freshman Stefanie Tarpeh’s said her advice to her younger self is, “You can’t force it. As much as you want it to be that person, it’s not going to be them, so let it go.”
Letting go of toxic people or situations is essential for emotional well-being, creating space for healing, new opportunities, and a fulfilling life, she said.
Sophomore Zoe Sowah’s said her favorite trait about herself is her “genuineness in maintaining pure intentions in relationships.” Being genuine encourages trust, effective communication, mutual respect, conflict resolution, and long-lasting bonds, she said.
Heather Mitchell-Buck, an English professor at Hood, said she believes everyone deserves more than one chance and should be given the benefit of the doubt. Providing second chances is crucial in some circumstances, acknowledging that life can be challenging and people can make poor choices under pressure, she said.
While Valentine’s Day provides a moment to celebrate love, self-love is a lifelong journey that requires intention and commitment. By prioritizing themselves, people can build a strong sense of self-worth and self-appreciation that enhances their overall quality of life beyond a single holiday.
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