During the third century, Roman Emperor Claudius II outlawed marriage for young men hoping to create a better army made up of men free of wives and children. According to one legend, Valentine, a priest, continued to marry young lovers in secret and was put to death for his actions.
Another legend tells the tale of an imprisoned Christian by the name of Valentine who signed his love letters with the words "From your Valentine."
Like all legends, we cannot know how much, if any, of a story is true. What we do know is that the tradition of celebrating love and romance through the month of February is long standing. Valentine's greetings go back as far as the Middle Ages. The oldest known Valentine card is on display in the British Museum. According to the Greeting Card Association, approximately one billion Valentine's cards are purchased each year.
Most Americans remember classroom Valentine's parties complete with sweets, games, and, of course, exchanging Valentine cards. After classroom parties, anonymous Valentines were sent to crushes, signed Valentines were exchanged with first loves, and then with spouses. Besides those mentioned, the only Valentines received after primary education, are probably from a close relative wishing you a special day.
What I propose for Tuesday's theory is that we toss out the notion that Valentines are only to be sent to a lover, but rather embrace sending a Valentine to all those you care deeply. First, everyone loves receiving something other than a bill in the mail. Second, greeting card companies have plenty of non-romantic Valentines to offer (if you are not interested in getting in touch with your elementary self and making your own). Third, it truly is better to give than it is to receive. I guarantee YOU will feel the love when you drop your cards at the post.
