I am completely and totally indifferent to Valentine’s Day. I won’t lie, I’ve usually been single on that day every year, but I am fine with it. There is however one thing I dislike about Valentine’s Day and that is the “single shaming”.

If you are single on Valentine’s Day, people pity you and will say “oh it’s okay, don’t worry, maybe next year”. Valentine’s Day has a completely different name for people who are not in a romantic relationship. It is known as the “Single Awareness Day (S.A.D.)”. However, I will say it loud and clear: I’m not miserable and bitter about being single.

For a few years now, I have had a new Valentine’s Day tradition – that is, Galentine’s Day. The expression came from an episode of Parks and Recreation starring Amy Poehler. For this celebration, on February 13th of each year, ladies celebrate ladies and have brunch together, putting boyfriends and husbands behind, honoring their female friendships.

When I heard about it a couple of years ago, I thought this was an awesome idea. So, with a couple of girlfriends, we went to a Montreal restaurant for Galentine’s Day, and I have to say, we had lots of fun. We had good food, drinks and a good laugh. Since then, I have a new tradition. I make the most of Valentine’s Day and have a good time instead of being pitied for being single and pressured to feel extra alone. I have an excuse to hang out with my closest girlfriends and celebrate a different kind of relationship – friendship.

Valentine’s Day shouldn’t be exclusively about celebrating romantic relationships. It should be about any kind of relationship with people you love and care for, such as your parents, your closest friends, or yourself. Take this opportunity to love and take care of yourself. Do what makes you happy with people that make you happy.

So ladies, if you are single or your partner is not available for Valentine’s Day, don’t despair. Get your girlfriends together and celebrate your friendship. Maybe do your get-together on February 15th, when all the good chocolate is 50% off.

Happy Galentine’s Day!

Written by: Taylor T.