Lovers aren’t the only ones who celebrate Valentine’s Day

DEAR ABBY: Valentine’s Day is here and, to be honest, I don’t know much about St. Valentine. So I wonder if he meant the day to only be about lovers.

Is there any reason I shouldn’t send valentines to my friends? Why should anyone feel bad because they’re not “with” someone? If you love and/or care about a person, can’t you send them a box of chocolates, a card or some flowers?

It seems to me this should be a time of year you can let a buddy know you appreciate him, or let your brother, cousin, sister, neighbour or co-worker know you care.

It doesn’t have to be mushy. Happy Valentine’s Day to you, Abby! — TIM IN SYRACUSE

DEAR TIM: Valentine’s Day may have started as a celebration of romance and romantic love, but it has broadened to acknowledge other kinds of love and affection.

There’s absolutely no reason you cannot celebrate the way you described.

Happy Valentine’s Day to you, Tim, and to all my readers, for whom I have great appreciation and affection.