A twist on Valentine's Day encourages singles to embrace their relationship status and to not feel sad or lonely.
Feb. 14, marked by chocolates, flowers and heartfelt cards professing one's love for a romantic partner, often leaves those who aren't in relationships feeling like the holiday doesn't apply to them, but Singles Awareness Day, which can celebrated the same day or the following day, reminds people that it's OK to treat yourself.
While it's not officially recognized on the federal calendar, Singles Awareness Day is a rebellious response to Valentine's Day's commercialism -- retailers' big push to buy candies, jewelry, stuffed animals and other items for a special someone.
People who jokingly celebrate the unofficial holiday often argue that a person can buy those items for him or herself and that a gift or an expensive dinner shouldn't be what's expected as an act of showing love.
In addition to taking advantage of the discounted sweet treats sold at stores nationwide, some say the best way for single people to make the most of Single Awareness Day is to go out with a group of single friends or host a party for singles only. Some people choose to exchange gifts with their friends or to attend events for single people to meet one another.
Overall, Singles Awareness Day reminds people of a very important principle: The most important person to love on any day is yourself.
If you're still unconvinced that Singles Awareness Day is worthy of celebration, try to indulge in some Internet humor while you indulge in your discounted box of chocolates.
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