Once a year, we gather to give thanks, or exchange gifts in the wintertime, or observe the independence of our country/royalty’s birthday/general patriotic day, etc. And many still observe a standardized day for lovers to exchange gifts and spend a romantic day together.

But just as many of those other holidays are set on arbitrary days, Valentine’s Day isn’t connected to a quantifiable season of love. On any day we can realize our good fortune with family, give a thoughtful gift to a loved one, and exercise the rights and traditions of your country. Don’t fall into the misery of feeling left out because a lover’s holiday- a number on a calendar- fell during a dry spell in your romantic companionship.

Pining for a lover due to societal pressure is bound to set yourself up for disappointment; put yourself out there and let things happen naturally. Love is better when it’s unscheduled.