The independent student newspaper of Northeastern University

The Huntington News

The independent student newspaper of Northeastern University

The Huntington News

The independent student newspaper of Northeastern University

The Huntington News

Column: Singles: No need to shun Cupid

Ah, Valentine’s Day: everyone’s favorite “Hallmark Holiday.” As soon as the New Year chimes in, Valentine’s Day in all its red and pink glory starts creeping into every mall, all your favorite restaurants and the local CVS. But when it comes to actually celebrating Feb. 14, it seems everyone is divided into one of two categories: “with a Valentine” or “without a Valentine.” For everyone in the first category, congratulations, and have a great night. For everyone in the second category: DON’T BE A LONELY LOSER!

Whether I have a date or not, I can’t stand mopey girls (and emo guys) on Valentine’s Day. Sadly, these people are becoming almost as common as those who lovingly celebrate the holiday with a significant other. But I believe there are better options than staying home alone with take-out while watching “The Notebook.” (Trust me, I know people who do this.)

For instance, last year my friend and I had no plans for the big day and were a bit distraught that we did not have boyfriends. So we went to dinner and lived the life, had an excellent extravagant meal and toasted to our fabulous existence without boyfriends. I know it is extremely “Sex and the City” of us, but honestly, it was one of my favorite nights of the semester. I fully recommend getting together a bunch of your most fun and single friends for a “Who needs men?” night on the town.

But you don’t have to go out to a fancy dinner to have a good Valentine’s Day. Just have some friends over and enjoy each other’s company. I know it’s not too different than what you would do on any other night, but it sure beats hanging out alone. This also goes for guys, but with a sports game and wings and whatever else guys do.

Have some fun and give all your friends those cute kiddy Valentines with Care Bears or Batman on them. Or even better, give out those boxes of Sweetheart candies.

My point is, don’t worry about not having a lover. Just tell those important people in your life that you love and appreciate them. Don’t waste time dwelling on being single.

But for the less optimistic (or more likely, the bitter exes) try an alternative party. If you happened to miss Kevin Federline’s appearance at Gypsy Bar’s “Shred your Ex” party last Friday (which I am totally kicking myself for passing up), be sure to catch Felt nightclub’s “I Hate My Ex” party on Valentine’s Day. The party features a dart board where you can puncture pictures of your least favorite ex, and it is the perfect way to blow off steam and meet some new prospects.

Another fabulous alternative if you’re single and ready to mingle is to throw a lingerie party, which is a fun and sexy way to meet a Valentine for the night. Or just throw the whole theme of “love” out the window and have a hook-up. It might sound a little far-fetched, but seriously, who couldn’t love the combination of underwear and a party?

If you’re single on Valentine’s Day, the most important thing is to make sure you’re not alone. Sure, you might think it’s a dumb day and prefer to avoid the whole thing by doing homework or something equally boring, but why not just have fun with it?

People don’t have to make such a big deal out of Valentine’s Day. Everyone is allowed to celebrate and spend the day however they like – with or without a date. Lonely singles should drop the miserable attitude, embrace their friends and laugh in the face of Feb. 14.

– Julia Gall can be reached at [email protected].

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