The Banner

I am not currently in a relationship, in fact, my last boyfriend left me with no more than a few good memories and a broken heart. So naturally you might assume that I am completely dreading Valentine's Day. If that's the case, my reply would be frankly, you are wrong.

Valentine's Day began as a holiday that was completely different from what it has become today. There are varying stories about how the day actually came about; some historians say it started after St. Valentine, a Roman who was martyred for refusing to give up Christianity, died on Feb. 14, 269 A.D., a day that had been devoted to displays of love.

Other experts believe that a farewell letter sent from Valentine to his jailer's daughter started the traditions of the day. The letter was signed "From your Valentine," which is a phrase that has traveled with us through time.

No matter how it came about, the day was created specifically to honor St. Valentine, the patron saint of lovers. Historically, it was celebrated by sending simple gifts, like love poems or flowers. Currently it is a day that marks thousands of engagements, grand expressions of love, and it is the second largest holiday for greeting card sales (next to Christmas, of course.)

So here's my point, for centuries this day has been around to celebrate one thing, and that is love. That is the reason I adore Valentine's Day: because I am in love with love. Whether or not you have a significant other, a crush or someone who you secretly wish would be your Valentine, you have someone to love. It can be a parent, a sibling, friends, pets, mentors, whoever.

On Valentine's Day it is important to really take the time to show those around you that you care. It takes no more than a simple gesture such as a card or a hug to let people know that you love them. It's about time we all forget about our sorrows and focus on what really matters, the blessings of having great people in our lives to love. Moreover, Valentine's Day is a day to celebrate our sheer ability to love and all of the splendid emotions that God has blessed us with.

Valentine's Day is so much more than just a greeting card holiday and is not solely for couples. It was created for a reason. So go out, buy a box of Sweethearts candies and a few roses and just love your beautiful world.