Valentine's Day and Singles

In the United States, Valentine’s Day is often viewed as a day for couples with the emphasis on romantic love. However, what’s a single person to do?

The U.S. Census Bureau estimates that more than 80 million people will spend
Valentine’s Day as a single. Those without a significant other are definitely not alone. Single individuals who feel left out of this holiday might be interested in knowing that in other countries Valentine’s Day is a celebration for not only those who are in love but also for those who want to show appreciation for special friends. For instance in Mexico, February 14th is El Dia Del Amor y Amistad, translated to Love and Friendship Day. Viewing this February holiday in a broader fashion opens the door to many different kinds of festivities and ways to celebrate love on Valentine’s Day.

Many of the popular activities that are associated with Valentine’s Day are aimed at perpetuating fairly narrowly defined romantic notions with strong commercial overtones. But perhaps love can mean more this Valentine’s Day and it can be a day of selflessness, care, and friendship. The Bible states “greater love hath no man than he lay down his life for a friend…” This kind of love is selfless love- focused on giving rather than taking.

Valentine’s Day viewed as a celebration of selfless love emphasizes focusing on
meeting the needs of others rather than worrying why we don’t have anyone to give us roses or buy us chocolates. Perhaps in meeting other’s needs, our own needs for romantic companionship becomes less of an issue.

With this different prospective in mind, consider the following suggestions:

Spend the evening with an elderly person or offer to fill in for a married friend who is scheduled to work on Valentine’s Day evening.

Babysit your neighbor’s children and let them have a night out on the town.

Phone a friend on the evening of Valentines Day who is lonely, ill or going through a recent divorce or breakup.

Have a party for friends with activities that emphasize friendship and love.


The important thing is to remember to celebrate love, whether it be the romantic kind or just being with very good friends, the kind who are always there when you need them.

Harold H. LeCrone, Jr., Ph.D. Copyright 2004