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Happy (early) Valentine’s Day, readers! I hope you all have some plans you’re looking forward to this weekend, regardless of your relationship status. Whether it’s a romantic dinner, a movie night with friends or some much-needed alone time, this holiday is a chance to reflect on love in all its forms.
I’ll admit my feelings about Valentine’s Day have evolved over the years. As a kid, I loved it: the class parties, handmade cards, candy and the simple joy of celebrating good moments. Middle and high school, however, were different stories. The combination of cringe-worthy public displays of affection and unnecessary drama made me skeptical of Feb. 14. Add in the Hallmark clichés and commercialization, my enthusiasm waned by the time I was a teenager.
But now, as a college student, I’ve found a quiet appreciation for it. Sure, the holiday can feel overly feminized or consumer-driven at times, but at its core, it’s just a day to celebrate love for friends, family and even yourself. In a world that often feels heavy with crises — political, economic or personal — it’s nice to take a moment to do something without an agenda.
For me, that “something” is cooking. It’s an act of love that’s deeply personal, universally appreciated and a valid love language worth exploring this Valentine’s Day.
Gary Chapman, a counselor, author and radio host, first introduced “love languages” when he identified five ways people give and receive love: words of affirmation, gifts, quality time, acts of service and physical touch.
Cooking’s not on that list, but I think it should be. Think about it: cooking is a gift when you prepare a meal for someone needing comfort or celebration. It’s an act of service when you take the time to make someone’s favorite dish and quality time when you cook with loved ones or simply enjoy the process on your own.
Beyond the semantics, there are practical benefits to cooking as a love language. For one, the fridge is always full. But also, investing in good ingredients and cooking intentionally is a way to show up for yourself in a tangible way. You’re finding creative but practical ways to nourish your body and stay present. And, of course, by understanding your own love language, you can communicate with others more effectively.
My love for cooking started with my mom. Some of my favorite childhood memories took place at home, where she taught me the basics of cooking and baking. But it wasn’t just about the recipes — it was the time we spent together.
At that scratched kitchen island, I learned more than how to whisk, chop and sauté. My mom showed me the importance of cooking for both health and happiness. She taught me to value quality over quantity and how to build on a solid foundation. And perhaps most importantly, she showed me that cooking is a way of saying, “I’m here, I care and I’m listening.” Even if her hands were busy stirring a pot or kneading dough, I always knew she was there for me.
Now, as an adult with my own space, cooking feels like a delicious and grounding reset. Every week, I step into the kitchen to reflect on how I’m showing up for myself and for the people I love. I call my mom while I cook, brainstorm recipes and savor the process. It’s become a ritual that reminds me of where I come from, what I value and how I want to move forward.
Whether it’s a stressful day or a moment of celebration, the kitchen is my safe space. It’s where I can rewind, create and appreciate life’s little joys. And for that, I’ll always be grateful.
This Valentine’s Day, I’ll be celebrating with food. No elaborate recipe or fancy ingredients — just a little time, intention and care. Cooking is more than just a chore or a skill — it’s a way of showing up for yourself and for others. And trust me, it’s always worth it.
Meghana Rachamadugu (she/her) is a senior studying marketing and business analytics as well as pursuing a minor in French.
