VALENTINE'S DAY: A REFLECTION ON LOVE, GIVING, AND THE TRUE MEANING OF FEBRUARY 14TH

As I sat in the car with a friend, a fellow student of the University of Abuja, our conversation drifted to the topic of Valentine's Day. My friend received a call from his dad, who revealed that he was reminded of the special day by none other than his son. This sparked a fascinating discussion about the origins of Valentine's Day and its true meaning.

We delved into the story of Saint Valentine, a priest from Italy who embodied the spirit of love and giving. He noticed that many couples wanted to get married but lacked the means to start a new life. Saint Valentine took it upon himself to provide them with the necessities, from home appliances to ingredients for a happy marriage. He gave freely, expecting nothing in return, and his kindness culminated in the marriage of these couples on February 14th.

As we reflected on this story, I couldn't help but think about how the essence of Valentine's Day has evolved over time. What was once a celebration of selfless love and generosity has become a day where people expect to receive love and attention. The focus has shifted from giving to receiving, and it's easy to get caught up in the commercialization of the holiday.

But as my friend's dad so aptly put it, "The more love you give, the more love you receive." This resonated deeply with me, and I couldn't help but think about the countless individuals who are spreading love and kindness on this day.

To those who are celebrating Valentine's Day with loved ones, I offer my warmest congratulations. But to those who are single, I urge you not to feel pressured or left out. This day is not just about romantic love; it's about celebrating the love that surrounds us in all its forms.

As we navigate the complexities of love and relationships, let us remember the selfless spirit of Saint Valentine. Let us strive to give without expecting anything in return, to spread love and kindness wherever we go.

In the words of my friend's dad, "If you are single, calm down and see how it goes." Don't feel pressured to conform to societal expectations. Instead, focus on cultivating love and kindness within yourself, and watch how it transforms the world around you.

Happy Valentine's Day, dear readers! May this day be a celebration of love in all its forms, and may we continue to spread kindness and generosity throughout the year.