It’s February 12. Valentine’s Day is in two days. And god forbid that you spend that oh-so-romantic day without a Valentine. 

Whether you’re desperately searching for that one perfect person, or planning to spend the day sulking beneath your covers, Valentine’s Day is unavoidable!

There are many legends that describe the origin of this holiday, but the most common explanation is traced back to the martyr, St. Valentine. Rumored to have performed marriages for couples in defiance of Emperor’s Cladius’s blessing, Valentine was executed. After his death, he was recognized by the common people as a hero who symbolized the importance of love. 

To honor his sacrifice, people exchanged handmade cards containing love notes. In modern times, the holiday has evolved to decorating cards with hearts of every possible color. And of course that ugly naked baby with his bow and arrows. 

As the tradition developed through the years, Valentine’s Day became quite commercialized. As February approaches each year, Valentine cards are everywhere. From sappy messages to teasing wisecracks, there are–quite literally– cards for every situation. 

“I think Hallmark has tried to make [Valentine’s Day] into a more important holiday,” said Mr. Nemeck jokingly. 

To the hopeless romantic, this holiday is a highlight of the year. But some absolutely disdain the holiday. The majority of those who dislike Valentine’s Day seems to be excluded from the purpose of the celebration – love. In other words, they’re single.

“[Valentine’s Day] leaves people out because you’re separating [them] into different groups, making couples seem better than single people,” said seventh-grader Rebekkah C.

Perhaps this is one of the reasons why this holiday is often dreaded. 

“[Valentine’s Day is] TRASH!” said Isaac M.

Even though it’s not a public holiday, that doesn’t stop American culture from encouraging it to the point that it seems almost boastful. I’ve got someone to hold my hand? What about you, huh? 

All the festivities of Valentine’s Day seem to revolve around couples. But behind this pretense, there’s a true purpose in celebrating a day of love. Maybe it’s not simply about the affection between a couple. Love is love, and the love of family, friends and even acquaintances should be embraced.

This sparks the question, is Valentine’s Day really necessary?

Of course, some may not care much for the cheesy cards and piles of chocolate. It might be a special day to express how much people care for each other, but is it really worth dedicating a whole day? 

Many would say that it is unnecessary. 

“I think it should be celebrated every day. I’ll be nice to my wife and in love with her every moment, not just on February 14,” said Mr. Nemecek.

If love is important enough to dedicate a day, why not practice it every day? Love is part of our identity as humans, after all. On the other hand, Valentine’s Day allows those who don’t frequently express their appreciation for their loved ones, the opportunity to do so. Plus, if we have Groundhog’s Day, why not a day to indulge in some sappy sweetness?