Folks, if you have not noticed by the decorative red and pinks, it is Valentine’s Day. Whether you are a single pringle or a taken bacon, Valentine’s Day comes with its joys and sorrows. Those in relationships, however, must navigate the holiday and its particularities on The Hill.  

Our school is a very tight-knit community, so when you’re in a relationship it can be tricky. If someone spots you and your beau walking in the dark around campus, it’ll be everyone’s knowledge by the time you have finished circling the quad. My advice to you is to not give a fig about who knows or does not know, though odds are mostly everybody already knows. A relationship is a special thing, and to be able to see your partner anytime you want is something to be grateful for.  

Someone over the weekend told me that Valentine’s Day is depressing. While that may be true if you are dumped on the day, feeling envious towards the couples around you, or you dislike the idea of love overall, there is little to be depressed about. To the person who said this, Valentine’s Day is meant to be cherished however you want to cherish it.  

For our 6th formers in relationships, it is their last Valentine’s Day at Hill. Some of them might be wondering what next year’s Valentine’s Day will look like. Will you even be together? Are you willing to do long distance? This is something to talk about before you jump into the Dell.  

We’ve all heard of the high-school sweetheart love stories, so it is possible, but you have to be willing to put in the work, time, and commitment. Luckily, we live in the era of FaceTime, which can be a big advantage. If you happen to be going to colleges close to one another, try to visit on weekends. Have faith in yourselves, but it will not be easy.  

Speaking of not easy, couples in the “talking” stage today can be tricky. To buy or not to buy flowers. Is a card enough? Should we make our relationship official, since today is the day of love and grand gestures? My advice is if you want to be exclusive, now is the time to say it. Valentine’s Day is the perfect excuse to bring exclusivity to the table. Who knows, maybe your special someone is thinking the exact same thing.  

For the ones without a Valentine this year, please don’t stuff yourselves with chocolate. Host a Galentine’s, or whatever the bro version of that is, and make this day as enjoyable as possible. Be grateful that you do not have the stressors that situationships or relationships have today. The time will come when you will have somebody who will eat in the corner of the Dining Hall with you.  

Today, be with your loved ones. Call your parents if you have not in a while. Make plans to see your friends from home. Wear something red or pink. Valentine’s Day is a day to celebrate and to make the last few weeks of winter a bit bearable. Stay lovely out there.  

Anonymously,

Blue