In the third century, Roman Emperor Claudius II decreed that marriages were allowed no more. Married men were less inclined to join the Emperor's army than unattached men. Valentine, a priest, defied Claudius and continued to marry couples in secret. During one such secret marriage ceremony Valentine was captured and jailed. Valentine was told he would be put to death for defying Claudius.

Throngs of young people came to the jail and brought flowers and notes of encouragement to Valentine. Valentine befriended his jailer's daughter. On the day that Valentine died he left a note for her signed, "Love from your Valentine."

In the end, not even Claudius the Cruel could stand in the way of love. In honor of Valentine, I proclaim my undying love to that special Valentine, the one so very elusive, yet so very near and dear to my heart.

Edward W. Powers