Listen to a reading of the Love Letter to Myself blog

After celebrating Valentine’s Day this past Monday, I took some time to self-reflect, and think about what the holiday means to me. We all know the stereotypes – the flowers, chocolates, teddy bears, and mushy cards about how much someone means to you. Everyone’s dressed all in pink, and love is in the air.

Even with all the warm and fuzzies, there tends to be a stigma surrounding February 14th, especially if you’re spending it alone. The day can feel isolating, and the last thing you want to do is scroll through social media. It can be incredibly easy to fall into the trap of single sadness.

Personally, I disagree with the negativity. This year, I decided to make the day special, and do something nice for myself. In doing so, I bought Taylor Swift’s “Lover” Valentine’s Day cards, and wrote a love letter to myself. 

 

 

 

Dear Self, 

Tell me why Valentine’s day is on a Monday this year. Feelings I know all too well make me question how I’m going to make it through the day. Unless you are in love there is too much pressure to have found the 1 to spend Valentine’s day with.

For some, Valentine’s day feels like death by a thousand cuts. If you’re upset about not having a lover, you need to calm down. 

This is me trying to shake it off and have the best day.

 

 

It’s nice to have a friend. Be one to yourself. Take some time to care for yourself today. Buy the latte of your wildest dreams. Put on your favorite cardigan, dress, or t-shirt and sneakers so you can go out in style. Spend time catching up with your loved ones. Everything is going to work out. 

I think the times Valentine’s Day has felt enchanted is when I can take the day slow, not rushing to get to any plans. The only thing to change was my perspective.

It is easy to get caught up in needing to find your love story. I think the message in the bottle is to give yourself that appreciation. Forgive yourself for whatever you’re holding onto. Long story short, I survived Valentine’s day. 

 

Love,

Yourself

 

Hello there! My name is Madeline Bataille, I’m from Long Valley, New Jersey. I’m a junior Journalism and Spanish major with a minor in Gender and Women’s Studies. I work as a barista at Fuel Coffee bar in Narragansett. You can also see me on campus in my position as the current Photo Editor of The Good Five Cent Cigar. In my free time I like to thrift, do yoga, and play guitar with some friends. This is my first semester being a part of the Campus Rec marketing team as a blog writer and photographer. I am so excited to share my love of well being through this platform and continue to be a part of the Rhody experience!