Like most holidays that are celebrated in the Christian world, Valentine’s Day has somewhat murky origins.

It may be descended (like Christmas and Halloween) from pagan traditions, in this case from the Roman celebration of Lupercalia. Or perhaps the day of love owes its origins to one of several Catholic saints by the name of Valentine.

Or, as some people say, it is just another hallmark holiday that big businesses are pushing on us in order to squeeze our wallets even more.

However, I urge everyone to partake of this day of shamelessly showing our affection towards one another.

I love asking my co-workers of the female persuasion what their significant other is doing for them for Valentine’s Day, because their hopes are often more extravagant than the men’s.

Usually the responses are the simple, yet awesome, activity of a fancy dinner. Somewhere like Red Robin doesn’t count if another place is affordable. Try Rodizio Grill for a really good time.

Other times I’ll hear things like “We are getting pierced together!” I suppose that is a somewhat sensual activity, and great if you are into that sort of thing. Just please do not delve into the world of matching tattoos; I am convinced getting one is the first step to a break-up. And then it’s just awkward.

But what if you are not into any of the above mentioned activities? Or you simply cannot afford to do something extravagant today? Don’t fret, this day isn’t about spending money, it’s about sharing time with the person that you have probably already spent money on.

There are other awesome activities that anybody can share with their cuddly cupid. Suggestions range from playing card tournaments with other couples in games such as Magic, (strip?) poker, or Pitch.

If those sound just too under-romantic, someone told me they are going to pitch a tent in the living room, turn on some romantic music, open a bottle of wine, and share their thoughts and dreams with their significant other.

However, if you do not have anyone yet whom you will share this evening with, it is not too late to find someone!

I am convinced that at any given time there are several people with whom an individual can become infatuated with. Men in particular here at CSU are splendidly lucky with all the beautiful ladies here.

Several times a day I will see a beautiful woman, and even if it is just for a second, they will steal my heart and I’ll fall in love.

I am sure every guy knows of a particular girl who compels roses and tulips to bow in the presence of her beauty; a lady whose loveliness is so uncommon that she could inspire anyone to write words of her splendor.

Well, that may be a little intense, but you get the idea. Men are usually expected to take the first step, and if she is anything like the description above, then get a move on!

Ladies, if there is a man that obliges your heart to completely flit away from chest every time he looks at you, tell him. Men want to know these things.

I sometimes feel girls get caught up in the idea of how meeting a guy should go, and thus pass up an opportunity to really have something.

Remember, it’s not the things you do that you regret forever; it’s the things you passed up that will gnaw away until you are no more.

What I am trying to say is that love is worth chasing; even if you crash and burn it is better than not taking that leap at all.

And what better day to finally courage up and talk to that person and start may just be the best thing that could ever happen to you, than on Valentine’s Day? A day dedicated to passion and love for one another.

And although you shouldn’t wait till this day to show him/her how much you care, this day exists for you to go above and beyond the call of loving.

So tonight may l’amour fill not only yours, but your prospective lovers heart as well.
Now speaking of that girl I was writing about…