Stores sell out of teddy bears and roses, radio stations play only love songs, and the smell of rich chocolates and Sweethearts fills the air. Starting to shift away from a dreary winter, February brings a brighter atmosphere as Valentine’s Day approaches.
This day of love and romance is often overshadowed by consumerism and the superficial aspect. Yet, in a time when love is expressed through cheap gifts and Instagram stories, there are some teens who recognize the true appreciation of this holiday.

Modern teen perspectives on love tend to revolve around external influences, often school dances and the influence of social media. With an overwhelming exposure of couples online and pressure to find a partner for after-school events, this is the time when young adults begin to date for the first time.
As they begin to face the complex reality of relationships, a universal day of affection helps teens start to be honest with their feelings. “Other times it can feel more stressful as you’re trying to balance other stuff, but during Valentine’s Day everyone is a bit more open and carefree to come together,” said Dayton.
Although many tend to forget the reason for celebrating this holiday, it’s a day to build long-lasting relationships with people you care about. Valentine’s Day provides an incentive and opportunity to express and celebrate their emotions rather than keeping them bottled up.
Granted, emotions and connections with others don’t have to be expressed through traditional holiday observances. Making sacrifices and acts of generosity are even more impactful, and those who put others first show the true value of this day.
“I like hanging out with little kids and I love helping out other people and just being with them,” said sophomore Ariana Sina. “[The kids] parents are going out so [hiring a babysitter] helps them to have alone time.”
Sina is spending the 14th babysitting for a family friend and taking the kid to Sina’s track meet that afternoon. They have babysat for the family before, allowing the parents to go out without the stress of simultaneously caring for their child.
“People view Valentine’s Day as just another way to get with someone for fun and then hurt them,” said Dayton. “But it really helps people find love and happiness in their lives. Without it, the year would be a lot more tiring and boring.”