Happy Valentine's Day!

As soon as the calendar glided toward the last of January, I started seeing in stores and supermarkets signs that Valentine’s Day was approaching: the red and green of Christmas were gone, so too the glittery gold of New Year's, no more than a sweet memory, while pinks and reds began popping up everywhere. This holiday is one of many in the year that give us the chance to remind those around us, even with a simple "Happy Valentine’s Day" greeting, that we harbor warmth in our hearts for them. And, as any celebration does, this one eases the hassles of daily living, whether one observes it in the most basic way or with more elaborate expression. Merely saying "Happy Valentine’s!" to someone we know in class, the dorm, the office, or the store is a chance to demonstrate our goodwill and let the other person know that we wish them the best. It feels good to receive a greeting reminding us that someone appreciates us.

There is also the fun that comes with the chance to celebrate another holiday with special food, or simply engage in leisure activities and laughter with family or friends. This helps us cope with the daily challenges that cause stress. "Any celebration, big or small, is really about taking a beat to notice the good stuff in your life,” says Polly Campbell in Psychology Today. Even mini-celebrations, she says, make us feel more optimistic and contribute to our well being.

For me personally, aside from the above-mentioned opportunities Valentine’s Day brings, the day is also a reminder that we are getting closer to spring--officially March 21.  And even though the reality is that in Kalamazoo spring may not show up until late April, the thought that by Valentine's Day we are halfway through winter gives me a mental lift. I like winter, don’t get me wrong, but the prospect of hearing the birds singing and seeing the crocuses, daffodils, tulips and other flowers emerge from the thawing earth is exciting. 

As has been recognized by experts in human behavior, there are deep underlying needs that drive us to engage in celebrations. We humans have found many wonderful ways to meet these needs and create more meaning in our lives. Valentine’s Day is one. So do something special for the occasion, even if it is an uncomplicated gesture. I promise: somebody will treasure a funny or sweet card, a cookie, or a box of chocolates.

Happy Valentine’s!

How to Say "Happy Valentine's Day" in Various Languages:

    • Arabic – (if speaking to a male) Eid hob sa'eed, habibi; (if speaking to a female) Eid hob sa'eed,habibti, عيد حب سعيد
    • Dutch – Fijne Valentijnsdag.
    • French – Joyeuse Saint Valentin.
    • German – Alles Liebe zum Valentinstag.
    • Indonesian – Selamat Hari Kasih Sayang.
    • Italian – Buon San Valentino.
    • Japanese – Shiawasena Barentaindee.
    • Portuguese – Feliz Dia dos Namorados
    • Mandarin – Qingren jie kuaile, 情人节快乐
    • Spanish – Feliz día de San Valentín
    • Swedish – Glad Alla hjärtans dag
    • Thai – Sook San Wan Valentine