I thought Valentine’s Day was supposed to be about love, but instead, I found myself wiping away tears, feeling like the villain in a story I didn’t even write.

 Valentine’s Day is often romanticized as a day of love, grand gestures, and perfect moments, but in reality, it can be anything but. The pressure to make it special can lead to high expectations, and when things don’t go as planned, it can feel incredibly disappointing. Whether it’s an awkward date, an unappreciated effort, or an unexpected embarrassment, the day can sometimes leave a lasting sting instead of a warm memory. Social media only adds to this, making it seem like everyone else is having a perfect day while you’re left dealing with something frustrating or painful.

Embarrassment on a day like Valentine’s can be especially tough because emotions are heightened. When things go wrong, whether it’s a misunderstanding, rejection, or just bad luck, it can feel like all eyes are on you. But the truth is, moments of embarrassment pass, and most people are too caught up in their own lives to dwell on what happened to someone else. What feels huge now will eventually become a story to look back on, even if it doesn’t seem that way yet.

At the end of the day, love isn’t about one particular date on the calendar, it’s about the connections we build over time. True affection isn’t measured by Valentine’s gifts or public displays of romance, but by kindness, consistency, and care throughout the year. A single bad experience doesn’t define your worth or the love you deserve. No matter how painful or embarrassing Valentine’s Day was, it’s just one day, and better moments are still ahead.

“I gave my heart, and in return, I was left alone with my tears—watched, judged, and made to feel like I was never enough.”

IPA 2015 Winner / Roses in decay / Gregoris Mentzas. (n.d.). https://www.photoawards.com/winner/zoom.php?eid=8-90343-15