Letter: Love, even today, requires much labor

To the Editor:

What comes to mind when you hear the word “valentine”? Is it love, chocolate, red roses? What about love notes?

There are many legends about Valentine's Day, but the one that stands out to me is about Priest Saint Valentine, who despite the law stating that young men were not allowed to wed in hopes to greaten the Army, secretly married couples. He was caught and taken to jail. The night before he was to be executed he wrote to a girl, signing the card, "From your Valentine."

Hence, Valentine cards were created.

It may be a myth, but it's not unbelievable. I recently read "Love Letters of Great Men Volume 1" by John C. Kirkland. There was a truth written passionately by the men of our history, from the first to the 20th century.

Forced to be apart, many wrote letters barring sentiments of admiration and devotion toward their lovers. "They can take my life, but not my love that I feel for you." — Voltaire, written while imprisoned by rule of king.

Not quite something we hear of nowadays. However, by other various reasons that we face today, couples are occasionally forced apart. If history has taught as anything, it's to have hope and strength, to stand up for what you believe in and Valentine's Day is a time to remember and recognize those who fought, and do fight, for love.

The overall modern celebration of Valentine's Day is filled with overwhelming displays of reds and pinks, cutout paper hearts, sweet candies and kisses. It is loved by some … disgusted by others; and for those of us, romantics at heart, I hope this Valentine's Day, and each day after, you celebrate your love — and maybe write a love letter of your own.

"Believe me, nothing on earth is given without labour, even love, the most beautiful and natural of feelings." - Count Leo Tolstoy

Jenna Fortier

Red Wing

Tags: opinion, letters