On this day so very eagerly anticipated by restauranteurs, florists, and—oh yes, by lovers—we're passing along some words of love. (来源：http://www.EnglishCN.com)

Those happy in love may appreciate the heartfelt words of Charles Dickens' on how to stay that way: "Have a heart that never hardens, a temper that never tires, and a touch that never hurts." Those recovering from love gone bad may find bitter comfort in this metaphor from Lynda Barry: "Love is an exploding cigar we willingly smoke."

Ready to reach out to one's secret valentine? Remember these words from Mahatma Gandhi: "love never claims, it ever gives." But, if you need to gird yourself for possible rejection, repeat this, from Washington Irving: "Love is never lost. If not reciprocated, it will flow back and soften and purify the heart."

We'll end with some words from Mark Twain, whose marriage was a long and loving one. He wrote: "Love seems the swiftest, but it is the slowest of all growths. No man or woman really knows what perfect love is until they have been married a quarter of a century."