Love, of any kind, needs to be cherished

Love is potent and fascinating. It can also be unexpected, heart wrenching, and perplexing.

But these are the qualities that make our most powerful emotion so desirous and addictive, because love is contagious and fragile, and we are reminded of this fact each year on Valentine’s Day.

Although it seems that Valentine’s Day has become a 24-hour period of tacky cards, corny gestures, red hearts and cupids, this day is, in fact, vital to our existence; it brings out the honesty and legitimacy behind those three words we so often take for granted.

In the Hewlett-Woodmere communities, where many know each other so well, love is simply everywhere, spreading between neighbors, friends, and families. This Friday, many community members will be striving to define something so profound.

“Receiving gifts and knowing you’re loved by friends and family makes everyone a lot happier,” Hewlett High School senior Sammi Kenny said. “It also makes the harsh winter much more enjoyable.”

It’s understood that love can be felt but not seen yet such a concept is proven wrong on Valentine’s Day when the colors of red and pink bombard the stores and new shimmering necklaces can be seen from afar. When you think about it, it seems almost unfathomable that an emotion so powerful can exist in such abundance.

“Valentine’s Day is the chance out of all days to show your appreciation for others,” Hewlett High junior Andrew Levy said. “It’s important for your family to know that you always love them and support them, no matter what.”

As “cheesy” as this day may appear, it works. It forces us to ponder about our loved ones and possibly think of our relationships in a new perspective. Are you that boyfriend who is simply too frightened to admit you love your girlfriend or maybe that woman who is too fastidious in your search for a loved one? This day makes you think. It makes you want to improve on your relationships, or causes you to realize just how content you are. For all these reasons this day should indeed be considered valuable.

Whether you are that boyfriend or that woman, may your Valentine’s Day be one to remember; one of laughter, satisfaction, and the utmost joy because every person out there deserves to hear the three words “I love you” ring in the chilly air.

I’m just 18-years-old and maybe I’m not supposed to know what love feels like yet, but I disagree. I have the utmost love and gratitude for my trustworthy friends and my dependable family. That is the love I know.

Whether I find “true love” in years to come, I know that this love will be cherished annually on Valentine’s Day, and remembered every other day of the year.

Just realize one thing: For those who search for the most perfect gift, remember, sentiment does not cost much.

So this Valentine’s Day put aside the candy hearts and the teddy bears, and focus upon those loved ones in your life. Let this day be a time in which love is celebrated, no matter who is giving or receiving it. We all need a little love in our lives, don’t we?