One in nine of all valentines are sent by people to themselves.
—TV news item, February 14, 2002

Paula did it so others in the office—
who lunch at The Olive Garden together,
don't include her—won't think she is
a loser. On her desktop, it pulsates.

Sam sent himself six in varying sizes
and shades of red and pink. His secretary
(for whom he lusts in his heart and pants)
thinks him much sought after, relents.

Angie did it to signal to her lover she
can't be taken for granted. She signed it
in block letters, black Magic Marker:
LUV YA FOREVER! YOUR ITALIAN STALLION!