The Great Divide

I grew up during that period when people were mostly given just two options: Coke or Pepsi, Marcos or Ninoy, Student Canteen or Eat Bulaga, Flordeluna or Annaliza, Regal or Viva.

So subconsciously, I was trained to think that way. This or that. Either or.But then we all became enlightened, got our acts together, came up with more innovations, created more opportunities, and realized that there are more than just two options. And thankfully, things are not the same anymore. Kids now no longer watch the same shows (in my time, it was just Sesame Street every 10:00 am with a replay at 4:00 pm). Adults no longer just root for two PBA teams. And as for Philippine politics…well, don’t get me started with politics.

And yet, there’s one day of the year—one ominous day— when the world is divided into just two categories once again. That day is today: Valentine’s day.

It’s the day the world segregates everyone into single and not single. Into happy and not happy (as if being one is a function of the other). Into those who will go home with chocolates and roses and those who will go home empty-handed. Into those who wait for this day and those who dread its coming.

Into those whose time has come and those who are still waiting.And suddenly, just because it’s February 14, it’s the dark ages once more, and there are just two choices. And the other choice, i.e. singlehood, appears to be not really a choice, but just a default position; a waiting room for those who still hope and dream for that time when crossing over to the other side would be an option.

Well, here’s to everyone who still thinks this way: You are so wrong.And at the risk of sounding bitter (which I no longer am, in truth and in fact), being single now is a happy choice. And the world, even if it’s Valentine’s day is no longer just divided into two neat categories of single and gloomy and taken and happy. Last I checked, taken and gloomy now exists. And single and happy is fast gaining ground.

But my point is, let’s just all be accepting of whatever category we are in and not look down on others who belong to other side. Because in case you haven’t noticed, there are no longer just two sides. So let’s all just stop thinking about categories. It’s no longer the dark ages. No longer Coke v Pepsi Era.

Valentine’s day is for everyone who recognizes love and is capable of spreading it. So singles, own this day and don’t just enjoy it vicariously. Enjoy it the way any other couple would. Embrace its cheesiness and cringe at yourself after. Or not. It’s up to you. It’s your day too. Happy Valentine’s day!!!