Valentine's Day

But this day should be considered a reunion of love for the world community to say no against war.

Round the world on 14 February, flowers, gifts, sweets and beautiful things are exchanged between loved and dear ones . Although the truth behind the Valentine legend is murky, the story certainly has its appeal as a heroic and romantic one.

According to one legend, St. Valentine actually sent the first Valentine greetings himself while he was in prison and in love with a young girl who may have been his jailor's daughter. Before his death, probably around 270 AD, he wrote a letter which he signed "from your Valentine". This was a simple expression but it has its place in the minds of people.

Pope Galesium declared February 14 as Saint Valentine's Day around 498 AD. It was widely believed in France and England that February 14 was the beginning of the bird matching season, which added to the idea that it should be a day of romance.

Whatever may be the appeal of the day in relation to its background, we love to observe it with a difference. We like to establish fraternity, brotherhood, fellow feeling among the citizens, irrespective of any differences in colour, race and religion. We like to exchange our greetings with love, respect and affection. On this day, we like to develop understanding by forgetting all differences.

Let us give a different meaning to this day in our country forgetting its historical background and the legend, known or unknown. We should try to establish a new society full of fraternity and unity based on love and affection.

Kumar Prithwiraj Nath, Dhaka

Once again the time to highlight love has come as the Valentine's Day is back. Even a few years ago people hardly had any idea about the day. But now the situation has changed. The Valentine's Day is turning out to be a kind of national festival because of its universal appeal, though I strongly believe that every day is a Valentine's Day for true lovers. True lovers don't need a February 14 to feel for the beloved. They are in love throughout the year. They exchange gifts throughout the year. Their love is not subject to celebration of any particular day. But again this day might add steam to their passions!

Now, the Valentine's Day is believed to be a day of love---love of any kind. Love for one's parents, or one's brothers or sisters. For this reason, the day becomes more meaningful. Of course, people love their dear ones always, but this day may just help them to express their love in a mood of celebration.

Wajahat Anwar, Dept. of English, Dhaka College

Whether love is structured, dreaming of two hearts sinking in each other; there are whispers, gurgles and bangs, no matter who is right and who is wrong.

Its message is universal.

Nasir Uddin Roney Dept. of Anthropology, University of Chittagong