It’s that time of year again. Just when we thought we were past the cheesy greeting card and self-indulging period better known as “The Holidays,” it hits yet again. I am talking about Valentine’s Day — the holiday that sticks around long enough to remind us singles how pathetic, dejected and alone we are. As if Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s weren’t enough to remind us, Valentine’s Day rehashes all those horrible feelings.

So why do we need a separate day to celebrate love? It seems to me the love we share between one another should be celebrated every day through words and actions, and Valentine’s Day is just another ploy for florists and chocolate manufacturers to raise their revenues.

According to www.historychannel.com, the reason we observe Valentine’s Day still remains somewhat of a mystery.

The Catholic Church recognizes a saint named Valentine, and one legend sites that Valentine was a third century priest who sympathized with and assisted married soldiers, and in turn got put to death for his actions.

So why do we declare a holiday for saints and dead priests? Some argue it is in commemoration of the death of Valentine the priest, and Christians insist it was created in February to signal the need for purification.

Reasons aside, Valentine’s Day is traditionally defined by candlelit dinners, red roses, chocolates and hand-held strolls; in other words, things to be shared romantically between boyfriends, girlfriends, lovers, fianc‚s, husbands and wives.

So if you find yourself alone on this special day with a pint of Cherry Garcia and a copy of “A Walk to Remember,” put the spoon down and turn the television off. I have four foolproof solutions to the “woe is me” complex.

First, realize a celebration of love is not limited to romantic love. There are many important presences in your life, such as family, friends and even pets. Call your mom and tell her you cherish that whole “birthing you” thing, and tell Dad you appreciate him not telling Mom about that little MIP ordeal. Love can also be platonically shared between friends, so let your roommate know how much you love the way she wakes your ass up every morning, and steals your food when you’re not home.

Also realize love can be for yourself as a person, and the desire to act really, really out of control. Gather all your single buds and resurrect ’80s dance classics such as “Kung Fu Fighting,” “Ice, Ice Baby,” and “Mr. Roboto,” complete with the appropriate dance moves.

When the hilarities subside, crimp your hair and use the adjectives tubular and gnarly in every other sentence. You will be so immersed in your childhood, no time will be had to be bitter about the jerk who broke your heart and left you high, dry and dateless.

Secondly, if you just can’t get over that one special ex, and are convinced of your reunion with that irreplaceable individual, what better way to celebrate than a pity party with yourself? Build a shrine to this person, complete with gifts, pictures, flowers and concert stubs; anything that will trigger your memory of the joyful times you spent together. Play “your song” or any song that reminds you of him or her (“Everything I Do” by Bryan Adams and “You’re the Inspiration” by Chicago work just fine) and put it on repeat in your CD player. If you’re feeling excessively brave, call this person’s phone and hang up as soon as you hear their voice.

Thirdly, if you just can’t stomach how happy and in love every couple seems to be, tactfully and temporarily ruin the moment for them. Declare “She Hates Me” by Puddle of Mudd your new anthem, and drive all over town with your windows down and your system up. Burst into every crowded restaurant in town and belt out your rendition of “Love Stinks,” even while being escorted out by security. If you’re not happy, no one else deserves to be, right?

Lastly, on a more serious note, put things in perspective. In the words of Shakespeare, “Men have died, and worms have eaten them, but neither happened for love.” There is an abundance of problems in this world — especially now — that make your lonely, broken heart a low priority. When terrorists aren’t threatening our national security and our economy is boastful is when you can stress about another dateless Friday night. Invest that time and energy into constructive activities such as donating blood and volunteering.

In conclusion, if you find yourself alone and single on Valentine’s Day, don’t lose heart. Take action, and make the most of it. Happy Valentine’s Day.

Ashley Pierson is a senior in finance from Forest City.