First, a little historical perspective… St. Valentine lived during the time of Claudius the Cruel in Rome. Under his rule, Claudius was not fond of men who would not join his military leagues due to their devotion to their wives and families. Therefore, Claudius banned marriages and engagements in Rome. However, Valentine defied the emperor and continued to perform marriage rituals for people in love in secret. When Claudius discovered what Valentine was doing, he ordered him put to death. The sentence was carried out on February 14. While in jail and prior to his death, Valentine wrote a farewell note for the jailer’s daughter, who had become a friend.…