Can We Talk 2

Valentine's Day

         What an odd holiday! I even know some married couples who just don't get it, and only do the superficial efforts with little expense. For others, it is a monumental day. Of course, merchants like it. They sell greeting cards, flowers, candy, gift wrap, jewelry, memorabilia, meals, etc.

         The original Valentine was a priest imprisoned who befriended a blind girl. His letters were letters of friendship and encouragement only. He signed them "your Valentine". They had nothing to do with love, romance, or marriage. (I have ancestors in my family tree who were named Valentin. It was a very common name.)

         It's sort of a fun day for children. You can decorate cookies or cupcakes for a little something festive, now that Christmas is forgotten. Once you're out of school, the only time Valentine's Day might matter is when you're in a new romance, which can happen at any age.

         One year, I bought several long stem roses. On Valentine's Day, I gave one to each of several widows who worked with me. I felt like they might be a little lonely remembering their lost ones on such a day. The day did seem more significant to me that way. A lot of widows and widowers probably feel the loss on a day built on romance.