I must confess that upon first seeing the headline of Father Peter Cameron’s article in the Feb. 9 issue, “Lent is for lovers,” I thought the comparison of Ash Wednesday with Valentine’s Day seemed a bit forced.

That may still be the case. But reading it did help me to live both festivities a little differently this year.

For example, I realized Ash Wednesday doesn’t have to be so gloomy. My thoughts in Mass on Feb. 14 turned to some of the miracles I’ve seen in my life, including my rebuilt marriage and reconciliation with my dad before his death. Both wouldn’t have been possible without the “ultimate love” of God that I experienced in tough times.

As for St. Valentine's Day … well, I think I ate a little less candy than last year.

— Carlos Martinez, Fresno