Valentine’s day is a day when you spend time with loved ones, whether that be friends, family, or your partner. You show your love for one another by buying and exchanging flowers, chocolate, or cheesy Hallmark cards. But what’s the real story behind Valentine’s day? 

February is known as the month of love and the celebration of St. Valentine, which dates back to the fifth century. The story of Valentine’s day and the reasoning behind it is a big mystery, but it’s believed that St. Valentine was imprisoned. He sent his first “valentine” letter to introduce himself to his jailer’s daughter who visited while he was in jail. Before his death, he wrote another letter, which was signed “From your Valentine.” This is where the cards and flowers come into the holiday.

Another theory is about marriage being banned in Rome because ruler Claudius Gothicus believed it was destroying his army. Valentine, a priest, disobeyed the law and continued to perform wedding ceremonies in secret. When Claudius found out, he ordered that Valentine be put to death.

For sophomore Lia Lamberson, Valentine’s day is a special day to spend with loved ones.

“I like Valentines day,” Lamberson said. “I think it’s cute.”

For some people, Valentine’s Day is a dreadful, lonely holiday. Not knowing what to get a loved one, finding a date, or just spending it alone can frustrate people and make the holiday unenjoyable.

Senior Ben Willett said the holiday is unnecessary.

“I dislike Valentine’s Day,” Willett said.  “It composes my heart’s sense to be extremely depleted and aggrieved.”

According to sophomore Andre Sebastian, Valentine’s is just another, normal day.

“Valentine’s is just whatever, nothing special, but that’s also because I don’t have anyone to spend it with,” Sebastian said. “I feel like you have to be older to enjoy Valentine’s.”

Article was updated for grammar and clarity.