This Friday is Valentine’s Day (or Anna Howard Shaw Day for those who celebrate other events on February 14).

To celebrate, we asked retired public employees to share why they love their pensions. We’ve compiled some of our favorite responses below. 

My pension allows me to live with dignity and modest security. It is not a handout: I earned it with 50 years of hard work.Polly C.

I love my pension because it allows me to continue to work in the education system teaching the children who are the future! Sarah M.

My pension allows me to continue living in my home in retirement.  I love that!Cherylene E.

My pension guarantees me the opportunity to pursue my passions. Janice D.

My defined benefit pension gives me peace of mind that I can live my retirement years with dignity and independence.Bev G.

Pensions are a fundamental source of economic stimulus to communities in Illinois and the only retirement income for hundreds of thousands of people.Glen B.

I love my pension because it allows me to expand my horizons and give back to my community.Gary S.

My pension helps compensate for the lower wages I earn as an educator. – Steven M.

P.S. It’s not too late to join the fun! Tell us why you love your pension by tagging us on Facebook or Twitter and using the hashtag #LoveMyPension.