in ad 496 saint pope gelasius i named february 14 as "valentine's day". although it's not an official holiday, most americans observe this day. the first valentine card grew out of this practice. the first true valentine card was sent in 1415 by charles, duke of orleans, to his wife. he was imprisoned in the tower of london at the time.cupid, another symbol of the holiday, became associated with it because he was the son of venus, the roman god of love and beauty. he is represented by the image of a young boy with bow and arrow. cupid often appears on valentine cards.

　　whatever the odd mixture of origins, st. valentine's day is now a day for sweethearts. it is the day that you show your friend or loved one that you care. you can send candy to someone you think is special. or you can send roses, the flower of love.