To some people, perhaps even many, Valentine's day means virtually nothing. To others, though, it's a top priority to do something special for this holiday. Getting candy from your friends or romantic partner is nice, but if we take this holiday to a deeper level, we start to think. What even is love? Is true love as true in real life than in the fairy-tales we enjoyed as children? (Oh, no… Down the deep thoughts rabbit hole we go…) Well, the answer is simple. Yes… and no. I'm guessing that now you're crying, "But a yes and no answer isn't simple!" Just let me break it down for you. Love, by dictionary definition, has two meanings. The first definition is "an intense feeling of deep affection." The second is "a great interest or pleasure in something." In the first definition, you want to please the other person. The first definition of love is what you think we would call that "true love" that fairy tales are so famous for. This feeling is (probably) mutual. In the second, however, it's a feeling of love for your own self-gain, or vice versa for the person who "loves" you. But both definitions are just the tip of the iceberg. Love has many different meanings with different types. It's an umbrella term, and practically impossible to encompass the real meaning of by using a dictionary. According to Greek philosophy, there are seven types of love. There's Eros (passionate and romantic), Philia (a strong, platonic bond), Storge (unconditional, familial love), Agape (universal love), Ludus (playful, flirtatious love), Philautia (self love), and Pragma (long term, enduring love). So, not all love is your fairy tale fantasy. There are many types, and even then, love is always a very convoluted concept that has no real way of being categorized. The type regularly celebrated during Valentine's day is Eros, combined with other types. Philia, Ludus, and Pragma are often not prioritized, or left out completely. Often when people think of Valentine's Day, they only think of romantic love being celebrated. But, dating even all the way back to the Ancient Greeks, love has always been so much more. Celebrating Valentine's Day shouldn't only be romantic. "Single's Awareness Day" shouldn't have to be a thing, because even those who are single have friends and family they can celebrate with. Or hey, think about this, you could focus on self-love. After all, it's said you can't love someone else without loving yourself first! So, you single pringles out there, don't feel lonely or left out on this special day! Make it your own, and celebrate with the people you love, regardless of whether it's romantic or not. And to everyone, Happy Valentine's Day! Jayden, out! <3
