Valentine's Day

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Back in the second grade I was seriously in love with a redhead. We were in the Catholic school where things like love between 2nd graders is seriously frowned upon.

Yet I distinctly remember Valentine's Day and wanting to get the object of my affection something nice. Problem was, I was in a financial dire straits.

My sister came to the rescue. Corinne handed me a necklace that she didn't particularly want, but she gave it to me out of a soft spot in her heart. I remember hugging her, and asking her to keep it our little secret. Corinne wasn't that nice. She let my brothers in on the secret and they rode me hard. Yet I didn't care - love would conquer all.

I remember hiding the pendant in my pocket, and slipping it into my lovely's Valentine. We were forced to give Valentine's to all class members, but there was no reason why I couldn't have one special one without anyone else knowing. Problem was, I slipped the package into my back pocket and one of my class members pickpocketed me, and read it in front of everyone.

The redhead laughed at my words of affection - right along with everyone else. I can't remember what I wrote, but it was something along the lines of "I love you - do you love me?"

The answer, of course, was a resounding "No!" She took the necklace, but I never saw her wear it. I wonder where that bitch is these days!

Just kidding - that first Valentine memory stayed with me for years. I can't say that I haven't spent a lot of money on the holiday. I've purchased candy and roses. I've handed out Valentine's that weren't reciprocated.

I think of all this as my kids ready for the Catholic school party later in the week - I wish them all the luck in the world - I'll make sure they keep their special Valentine in their front pocket.

A post-script to the story comes in the way of a conversation with my wife. "What should I get you for Valentine's Day?" I asked.

"Nothing," she responded. "If you get me something, don't expect anything in return."

Ah, just like old times.

Comments

deafjeff said…
It's like their birthdays II. They never give nothing, but try not giving them something.
12 February, 2008
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