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OPINION

When I was in high school (and into my later teens), I would always get excited around Valentine’s Day — not because I had some hot date or boyfriend waiting to dote on me, but because there was always the POSSIBILITY of something.

What can I say, I read a lot of romance novels and novels with romantic undertones.

Each year I would dream about finding a single red rose taped to my locker or tucked under my car windshield wiper, paired with some kind of wildly charming love letter from a secret admirer.

I would of course find out it was from someone who I also (ironically enough) had deep-rooted feelings for (I just didn’t know it yet), and it would be the beginning of our love story.

Well I never did find a flower taped to my locker, fanciful sonnets, or anyone professing their love for me.

But I survived, and I still held onto the hope that I would someday find my Prince Charming.

It is pretty much impossible to move through the month of February and not at least acknowledge the holiday of hearts and flowers.

For some, it is more stressful than Christmas, because if they don’t approach it just right, it could be a make it or break it situation for their relationship (current or potential).

I’ve never put a lot of pressure on a significant other when it comes to Valentine’s Day, but I understand why to some people, a kind gesture on Valentine’s Day is important to them.

Everyone wants to feel loved.

Love is a crazy emotion we get to experience as human beings, and let’s face it, it is one of the best and the worst.

There’s is nothing like that feeling of butterflies in the stomach or when you know you are falling for someone and you get excited about taking a chance to see if they like you back.

Or when you hear I Will Always Love You on the radio and you know you literally feel like you would go to battle for love... or at least you will end up a superstar with a hot bodyguard.

But love can bring out a dark side too — a cruel, envious and devious side.

There are different types of love — love for a parent, sibling, friend, family pet or child. And just as fun is falling in love, so is experiencing different kinds of love.

Valentine’s Day is the perfect excuse to tell someone you love them without having to feel weird about it.

You can blame it on Valentine’s Day!

You can show appreciation for a neighbour, family member or your favourite drive-in employee.

You can be as corny or affectionate as you like.

Don’t see Valentine’s Day as this exclusive club for new lovers or romantics. Tell your grandmother you love her and share your chocolates with a new friend.

And if you happen to find my younger self along the way, tell her everything worked out in the end.

— Becky Mann is a 30-something, red haired, mother of two, trying to navigate this life as best she can. She enjoys talking to people and discovering their stories. Still trying to balance her personal and professional life, she juggles work and play. In her spare time Becky can be found visiting with friends, spending time with her family and saving time by reading while walking. She knows there is so much more to come and is looking forward to the continued adventure.

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