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I attended second grade at a school in the US, where we lived for a year. The school had kids from around the world, being just outside Washington DC.
So, at 7 years old, I first experienced Valentine's Day. It was probably a first for others too. Our teacher told us that a valentine was a friend. Being a friendly boy, I got valentine cards for all the kids in the class. I got a fair number too, I think both from boys and girls, though I honestly don't remember.
Many years later, my father told me that the teacher in question was effeminate and obviously #gay. At 7, I didn't know I was gay, much less have a gaydar. But this made me think back and wonder. Was the teacher being intentionally inclusive? Or just protecting himself in a homophobic world?
@noam USAn here. In elementary school, K-5, we always gave Valentine's cards to the entire class. I grew up in Alaska with several different teachers in those grades. So I would say it had nothing to do with gay. It was just normal.
Thanks @sunlitrain
I can't say my memories from age 7 are perfect. What stuck with me was that when the teacher said a valentine was a friend, even then I was a bit surprised, because I guess I already knew it had a different meaning.
But yes, could be the two parts of the story are unrelated.
@noam Yeah, I think it's normal for it to be framed as for friends at that age. Even now, family and friends wish each other "Happy Valentine's Day" and give chocolates or other small gifts. In my circles it's not just for romantic partners.
Your dad sounds like he had an issue with that though.
@noam Oh, good. I am glad. In your country, is Valentine's Day only for romantic partners?