What is the first thing that comes to mind when you hear the word “love”? My guesses would be romance, a significant other.  

We often forget that family, friends, and platonic love are just as important and valuable as romantic relationships.

 Society pushes the need for romantic relationships to achieve happiness and deems friendships as less valuable than romantic relationships. 

We’re shown at a young age the pressure for a romantic partner in order to be happy. 

It can be seen as the older Disney princesses wait to be saved by their prince charming to live happily ever after. It wasn’t until “Brave” and “Frozen” that a princess movie showed an act of love for their family was what saved the day instead of true love’s kiss. 

When you type “love” in a Google search, the majority of images come up as romantic, heterosexual, monogamous relationships, when in reality that’s not all humans experience.  

I’m not saying there’s anything wrong with dating or romance, it’s just not the only form of love one can experience and shouldn’t be the only thing we think of when we think of love. 

Platonic relationships can be just as loving and caring as romantic relationships. Although hugging, going  to restaurants, or even celebrating Valentine’s Day can all be seen as romantic, they can all be done with friends, as well. Being compatible and loving with someone shouldn’t only be seen as important when you’re dating that person.

With romantic relationships being prominent in the mainstream media, it can put pressure on people who are not in a relationship or don’t want one. It can also make some feel lonely or less than if they want a partner but can’t find a suitable one. 

I’ve known people who have rushed into romance just to avoid being single. There’s societal pressure to be romantically involved so you’re not seen as lonely or unlovable. 

Romantic relationships can be wonderful at the right time and with the right person, but there’s no need for pressure to rush into one. 

 I’ve been single for about three years now, and I can say I feel just as happy in one of my closest friendships as I’ve been in a romantic relationship. 

I’ve slowly realized that I don’t need to be dating someone to be happy or fulfilled. Me and my friend have gone to the fair, the movies, and have had deep conversations in the Walmart parking lot.

 I can say I love him as I do my family, that I feel enough being single and in time, a partner will come. 

Personally, I’ve felt no obligation to rush into a relationship because I believe having yourself is enough, and having love for your friends and family is enough.

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