Remember the simple days back in elementary school, when Valentine’s Day meant giving everyone in your class a valentine or a heart-shaped lollipop with the message “I Love You” or the thought “Be My Valentine.” You then counted your valentines with your friends.

Valentine’s Day, which usually falls on a cold winter day, is a perfect day to share some warmth and the need of loving attitudes and deeds in a world that has become so cold, ugly, and devisive.

This holiday, just as many others, has its origins in religion and, in this case, as a liturgical celebration of one of the early Christian saints named Valentinus. Valentine’s Day first became associated with romance and love during the time of Jeffrey Chaucer in the Middle Ages, when the tradition of courtly love first flourished. By the time of 18th century England, it had evolved into an occasion when lovers, and hopeful lovers, expressed their affection for each other by presenting flowers, offering candies and sending amorous cards. That tradition carries on today.

For some, it will be an annual reminder of love lost, longed for, or perhaps never had.

Valentine’s Day is not just for lovers. It is a day when people can unabashedly open their hearts to say, “I love you.”

When you think of Valentine’s Day, what do you think of? We obviously think of our loved ones, but we also think of others who are far from those they love.

We think of the young men and women who are serving far from home, protecting our freedoms. Those who have stepped to the front of the line, volunteering to serve their country, miss many holidays. We want to send them a Valentine’s Day message of thanks, gratitude and love.

We think of those whose loved ones have passed away. We want them to know they are not alone. Whether you have lost a parent, spouse or child, whether you have lived a full life or are in the middle of your journey, you are not alone. While you may grieve privately, we as a community embrace and celebrate your love.

We should not need a day like Valentine’s Day to let people know they are special. We should let them know all year long and often.

It is a good day to reach out to a single parent, or a widow or widower, with some gesture of loving care. It’s a great time to send a card, gift, flower, or gift certificate to someone in the hospital or nursing home, or that person who lives alone and perhaps lack social interaction.

We live in a day and age where the culture seems increasingly bitter, uncaring and divided. Our leaders think nothing of calling people who disagree with them unflattering names.

The adage says “Love conquers all.” Friday, Valentine’s Day might be a good time to test it out. Take time to extend simple gestures of care to those who need it most.

Happy Valentine’s Day!