Simon Law and Karl Boxall met in Gozo back in 2004, through mutual friends. They immediately got along well and started dating, and in no more than six months, they took the plunge, and moved in together. It is then that the ultimate test was taken, and the two realised that not everything is plain sailing – any relationship requires effort. “We try to make each day better than the one before it, as much as possible, and try to resolve any issues before bedtime.”

Ten years ago, Malta had not yet taken the leap in legally approving rights for gay and lesbian couples. However, the pair have always been open about their relationship. “We always knew we wanted to be in each other’s company, and we never sought the approval of anyone,” Karl says.

“I’ve never felt the need to make some public statement about my sexual orientation. I do not believe anyone, heterosexual or homosexual, has to. You’ve got to let it happen,” Simon continues.

Karl does admit however that it wasn’t as straightforward with his family members, however, today they have approved and welcomed Simon as one of their own and accept invitations over at the couple’s home.

The next step for Simon and Karl is to get married in June of 2016. There was no pompous proposal that triggered wedding plans.  “We never considered marriage as something we have to necessarily go ahead with. We never really thought of it, until a few months ago. For the past few months, friends at weddings have been hinting we should be next couple to tie the knot, and at one point we thought ‘why not’? We’ve been together for the past ten years, and it would be a good opportunity to celebrate this. Really and truly, we are already a family - we are merely making this official.”

Thinking about the future, the couple wish nothing more than health and happiness between themselves, and their friends and families 

Despite the huge leaps forward Malta has taken in the past months, the couple is aware that certain ideologies and stereotypes still prevail. “We are not seeking to be liked by everyone, and we do acknowledge the fact that some might still feel uncomfortable with same sex marriage. However, we believe we’re doing nothing wrong. We know our principles and values – and we do our best to adhere to them.”

The two have not yet discussed raising a family of their own. “We are well aware of what an  enormous commitment bringing up a child is – so unless a person is 100% into it, they should think twice. What I believe however, that there is no distinction between heterosexual or homosexual parents. Having the skills of a good parent has nothing to do with your sexual orientation.”

“Today, I can’t imagine life without Simon. We’ve already spend a quarter of our lives together. We have always faced challenges together, and supported our way through,” Karl says.

For Valentine’s Day this year, the couple has decided to enjoy some quality time together at their favourite restaurant. “Most of the time we are surrounded by friends, but this year, we’ve decided to use the opportunity for some alone time.”

“There is no secret to a successful relationship, but doing your best to understand and cooperate with the other is crucial. One should not hold grudges over stupid arguments. And needless to say, honesty and trust are indispensible.”

Valentine’s Day origins

-         In ancient Rome, 14 February was celebrated as part of a three-day pagan fertility festival. Some even say that young men used to strip naked and use goat or dog skin whips to spank the backside of women, believing this would improve their fertility.

-         One of the most popular theories about the origins of Valentine’s Day concerns one Bishop Valentine. Emperor Claudius II, who ruled between the years 268 and 270, did not want Roman men to marry during wartime. Bishop Valentine however, went against his wishes and started conducting secret weddings. For this, he was later jailed and executed.

-         During Victorian times, signing a Valentine’s Day card was thought to bring bad luck.

-         Richard Cadbury produced the first box of chocolates for Valentine's Day in the late 1800s.

-         Valentine's Day generates an estimated $14.7 billion in retail sales in the United States.