I blush at the memories of receiving valentines from every one of my elementary school peers; they came with candy hearts and pins saying, “Be mine.” Valentine’s Day felt important; a day where we all showed love and care for each other, even those outside of our friend groups. Handing out valentines to everyone didn’t feel like an obligation, but a genuine gesture where everyone felt included.
I reminisce fondly on these days and wonder where along the line we decided to limit who to share these selfless moments with. We became adults and figured it was only necessary to give valentines to those whom we have close relationships with, like our parents, siblings, partners, and best friends.
Everyone deserves a voucher of kindness, especially those who are generous to us: bus drivers who wait for us when they see us running to catch our ride and professors who don’t dock penalties when we hand in assignments late. It would be nice for us to show more appreciation towards those outside of our circles. You never know what a small token of gratitude might mean to someone.
Veronica is a Staff Writer at The Cascade. She loves to travel and explore new places, no matter how big or small. She is in her second year at UFV, pursuing the study of Creative
Writing.
