Read by Matilda Longbottom

February is often referred to as the month of love. It is the time when we celebrate Saint Valentine’s Day, honoring the patron saint of love. Several legends surround Saint Valentine. One legend suggests he was a Roman priest who performed weddings in secret, defying Emperor Claudius II’s orders. He was later beheaded on February 14th, which is why the date became associated with Valentine’s Day. Another account claims Saint Valentine was the Bishop of Terni, who also met the same fate on that fateful day. It’s even possible that the priest and bishop were the same individual.

How did the beheading of a bishop or priest evolve into a holiday celebrating love? The credit goes to Geoffrey Chaucer. In his poem Parlement of Foules, Chaucer connected Valentine’s Day with the mating of birds: “For this was on seynt Volantynys day, Whan euery bryd comyth there to chese his make.” In Chaucer’s time, February was observed in England as the season when birds began pairing off to mate and lay eggs. This connection resonated with the English, and they adopted February 14th as a day to express their love.

Over the centuries, Valentine’s Day has continued to grow in significance. Couples use the occasion to exchange cards, flowers, and candy with their loved ones. It is the third-largest holiday for candy sales, second for greeting card sales, and ranks first for both flower and jewelry sales. That’s a lot of shopping—and love—in the air!

But did you know Valentine’s Day isn’t the only February holiday that celebrates love? Random Acts of Kindness Day, observed on February 17th, just a few days after Valentine’s Day, also embodies the spirit of love and generosity. Officially established in 1995, this day encourages people to uplift those around them through small acts of kindness.

In light of these celebrations, February truly earns its title as the month of love. It’s a time to show affection and appreciation to everyone in our lives. Whether you’re buying flowers and chocolates for a romantic partner or writing a thank-you note to the mail carrier, this is the perfect season to express gratitude. I’m considering handing out seed packets to strangers on both Valentine’s Day and Random Acts of Kindness Day. Sharing something that grows feels like a wonderful way to spread joy throughout the year. ❖

Do you celebrate Valentine’s Day or Random Acts of Kindness Day? If so, what do you have planned?