This is an opinion column

I get a Valentine’s Day card in the mail every year from a long time friend. It’s an ordinary postcard and it reads “Have a wonderful Valentine’s Day.” On the address side are four computer-generated hearts, and on the message side is a dancing man with big red hearts for hands. Each year she changes it up a bit, but it’s always simple and sweet.

I’ve known this friend for decades, through teaching and writing circles. We’re both a bit long in the tooth now, but she always remembers to send this card and I always look for it this time of year. It’s a small thing I can count on.