Valentine Memories

It was a custom to have a Valentine Box in my elementary school. We would place our cards in the box which would be delivered by an appointed Postman on Valentine’s Day. The more Valentines you received usually indicated your popularity. My mother was helping me address my cards. I’m not going to send one to Bill because he’s black and it says, I love you on it I declared. Oh yes, you are said my mother. Everyone will receive a card from you, said my mother. Bill was the only black student in my class. I guess I was too young to realize why my mother insisted on this. Needless to say Bill received a Valentine from me! It was the only one he received!!! Years later, after I was married, I had to leave early