In fifth grade we did our Valentine’s Day party a litte differently. Instead of just passing out valentines and candy, our teacher had us write compliments about each one of our classmates.

That year, even though it was fifth grade, I didn’t care about any “love” aspects of Valentine’s Day. Instead, I began to view the holiday as an opportunity to brighten my friends’ days and to just love on everyone.

Because of that, I have never spent Valentine’s Day whining or pitying myself if I was without a date or boyfriend for the day.

I wear pink. I make cupcakes. I smile. And you know what? I love Valentine’s Day because of that. It is a reminder that I am surrounded by friends and family who love me. It is a reminder that love is not just for couples.

So for all of you who cry or complain when Valentine’s Day rolls around: Look around you. Look at your friends. Look at your family. And then, realize how amazing it is to have any sort of love in your life.

If you begin to live your Valentine’s differently, you begin to view love differently. You become a more open, caring person. You prepare yourself for romantic love, for your future boyfriend or girlfriend; husband or wife.

So cheer up. Happy Valentine’s Day.