How to survive Valentine's Day

I know, you go to Walmart and the place is all heart-shaped balloons, chocolate boxes and teddy bears saying "I love you", and that makes you feel like puking rainbows. You don't have a significant other, ergo February 14th makes you feel insignificant, right?

WRONG!

Love is not just what you feel for a boyfriend or girlfriend. Love is also that feeling that warms up your heart when you speak to your family on Skype, the laughter that your good friends cause every day, the admiration a professor or classmate inspires you... There are thousands of types of love. Stop focusing on the one you lack (for the time being) and enjoy the ones you have.

Yes, I know, easier said than done. Except that... not really! Here I suggest a few ways to make the most of Valentine's Day instead of hiding under your blanket eating ice-cream and watching Bridget Jones's Diary.

- Make a list of everyone who made a difference, something nice for you in these months abroad. You'll realize you are very much loved indeed, and you won't care that much about the romantic type of love.

- Nobody is buying you flowers? Well, think you don't have to buy anything for anybody either, so you can spend that money on YOURSELF! Buy yourself some chocolate or jewelry!

- Write a Valentine's card for people you know are having a hard time. When you see the look on their faces as they say "thank you", you'll realize spreading love doesn't necessarily involve kissing.

- Throw a singles' Valentine's party. Try using decorations that are NOT red or pink, but other bright colors, and put music NOT talking about love, and messy food like wings or tacos, not sexy at all! You can even organize a sort of Secret Santa among the guests: each one of them should bring a unisex gift for exchange! Between the preparations and the actual party, before you can notice it the day will be over.

Happy Valentine's Day to my single friends too! Because we deserve it!