Valentines Day: The day of an overabundance of flowers, candy, and other items people give to show their love. When all of us were younger Valentines Day consisted of those paper Valentines your parents buy from the store and you handed them out to all your friends with a lollipop taped to it.  As we got older, the meaning of this romantic day has truly changed. Instead of worrying about which Valentines to get and hand out, we are worrying about who we are going to spend the day with. 

Many people in high school hate this day because they are “alone” or they don’t have a significant other to spend their romantic day with, but as teenagers do we really need a boyfriend or girlfriend in order to have a great Valentines Day? In my opinion, we don’t. I’ve been in a relationship with someone for awhile, but even if it wasn’t you would not see me with the other whining girls at my school moping around on this day of love because they are what they say, “forever alone”. To all the girls out there: You don’t need a guy to make you happy! Especially on a holiday. Go out with your girl friends. Go have a good time and be carefree. And to those guys out there, if you don’t have anyone to spend the day with, go play some video games with your friends, or throw a football.

This Valentines Day, I will be spending it with my boyfriend and also my friends. I feel like Valentines Day has been made out to be this sexual, romantic, and physical holiday, but we are only teenagers! We are not married couples. There is no need to get the rose petals, candles, and lotions out for your boyfriend or girlfriend. It is not necessary. I feel as if there are many people that have a constant pressure of planning something sexual and romantic for their boyfriend or girlfriend. I’ve been listening to conversations between friends during school recently and it has consisted of, “What are you doing for her for Valentines Day?” or they wink and say, “Are you planning something sexy for him?” I can honestly say that I don’t feel the pressure to be romantic or physical on this holiday. I’m planning on going to dinner with my boyfriend, but also my other friends. I will bet that I’ll have just as good of a time.

When I think about my ideal Valentines Day it would involve everyone that I love. After all, Valentines Day is the day of love and it’s meant to be spent with the people you love and that includes your significant other, friends, and family. I want it to be a day of fun and laughter. It doesn’t have to be what society makes it out to be. Remember, you’re only a teenager. Save the rose petals and candles for your husband or wife. 

Tori is 17 and from Winter Haven, Florida. She is a member of The National Campaign’s Youth Leadership Team. She recently flew for the first time to Washington, DC for her first YLT conference. Her arms are still tired. Have a question for Tori? Email us!