Be my Valentine

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Be my Valentine — these three words came into existence with the inception of Valentine's Day, celebrated every year on 14th February to deliver a message of love and affection worldwide. As observed, the day holds immense importance, as it is a time to choose a partner and share love with family, friends and companions through greetings, flowers and gifts. Handing over a rose is often considered one of the best gifts of the day.

Defining the historical roots, the day is named after Saint Valentine, 'a Roman priest martyred in the 3rd century on 14th February'. Various legends surround his life, including one where he secretly performed marriages for couples in defiance of Emperor Claudius' ban on marriage for young men. Claudius believed that single men made better soldiers, but Valentine stood against this, which led to his imprisonment. While in prison, he wrote a letter to a girl who had fallen in love with him, signing it 'From your Valentine' - a phrase believed to be the precursor to the modern-day tradition of sending Valentine's Day cards.

According to historical records, Valentine's Day did not become associated with romantic love until the 14th century. The tradition became more prominent in the 1500s and late 1700s, when commercially printed cards were introduced. The first commercial Valentine's cards in the United States were printed in the mid-1800s. In some places, the avian mating season of birds, which occurs in mid-February, has also been linked to the origins of the day.

Moreover, the day gained more popularity in the 1900s and 2000s, becoming a widely celebrated occasion in the 21st century. In countries like the United States, Britain, Canada and Australia, the day is celebrated with great enthusiasm, along with countries like Argentina, France, Mexico and South Korea.

In Pakistan, this tradition is also celebrated, with sweet wishes, red roses, candies and cards exchanged. Feelings are shared across generations - from children to adults, students to teachers, and friends to families - just as in other countries. The pure love and affection that define this day set it apart from the rest.

While often associated with romantic relationships, Valentine's Day can also be a day to celebrate friendship and familial love. Many people seize this opportunity to show appreciation for friends, family and loved ones. One of the most fascinating aspects of this day is the wearing of red dresses, making the celebration even more special.

From a commercial perspective, this day is particularly special for market profiteers. Many businesses, from florists to restaurants, experience a surge in sales, making it a highly profitable occasion. In France, for instance, revenues on this single day increase by nearly 80% compared to regular daily earnings. Pakistan's markets also witness a similar trend, with shopkeepers enjoying booming sales. Special discounts attract buyers, and various commodities are sold in large volumes, contributing to overall economic activity.

Rather than confining 14th February to conventional notions of romance, why not use this day to mend broken relationships? Many families remain divided due to minor misunderstandings, creating emotional distances that last for years. This day can serve as an opportunity to reconnect, rebuild trust, and strengthen family bonds. True love extends beyond romance; it is found in forgiveness, unity and the warmth of family.

As the French phrase Amor vincit Omnia - 'Love conquers all' - teaches us, love is not limited to romantic expressions. It extends to relationships and shared emotions. When given a chance, it can overcome even the bitterest rivalries.

Would it not be more meaningful to use this day to support unmarried girls who remain single due to financial constraints and the burden of dowry? Many parents, unable to afford wedding expenses, see their daughters as a responsibility they struggle to fulfil. If NGOs and the government step forward to bear these costs, it would give these young couples a dignified start to their new lives.

I ask readers: do you support this idea?