Every February across the country, candy, flowers, and gifts are exchanged between loved ones. It is all done in the name of St. Valentine. But who is this mysterious saint, and why do we celebrate this holiday?

Our legend says that Valentine, a Christian, fell in love with a young woman. Before his martyrdom for his faith, he wrote her a letter with this phrase, "From your Valentine." This is the well-worn phrase used on Valentine greetings today. Although the facts of the story may be murky, the appeal left behind by this romantic figure is not!

In reality, love is something to do every day. Christ asks us to love one another every day. He also adds: not just those who return our love, but everyone. This is the unromantic side of love, but it is the courageous side.

Affirming this courageous side of love, St. Francis de Sales wrote:

“It is to those who have most need of us that we ought to show love more especially. For in doing so we give greater proof of our love.”

In Christ's love, we are always His Valentine.