Valentine’s Day. A day reserved for romance, love, and appreciation. And for some a last ditch effort to make things right. But it’s origins come from an ancient dark place. There are several different legends that have found their way to us through the ages. Here are two of the most popular ones.
It is told that a Christian priest, named St. Valentine, was jailed and executed for performing marriages in secret.
According to legend, during the third century of the Roman empire, Emperor Claudius II came to the conclusion that single men made better soldiers than those who were married. Single men did not have the distraction of a family therefore able to concentrate more on their duties. Emperor Claudius outlawed marriage for young couples in love. Priest Valentine believed this to be unjust and he continued to marry the young couples. When Emperor Claudius found out about this he had Valentine jailed and put to death.
Another legend says that Valentine fell in love with a young girl who visited him often while he was in prison. It is told that the young girl was his jailor‘s daughter. They say that before his death he wrote her a letter and signed it……From You Valentine.
These words are still used today.
These are just a few of the legends about Valentine’s day. But whatever the findings, Valentine’s day remains a day for love and appreciation.
Did you know that February 15th is the day when most break-ups happen? The reason being that some girls believe that after being together for some time, they expect to be engaged by Christmas or New Year’s. When this doesn’t happen they figure they will give their man till Valentine’s day to pop the question, and when the question doesn’t pop, they decide to give up on the relationship.
A lot of men like to give flowers, and they are the most popular gift to give on Valentine’s Day Roses to be exact. Did you know that Eros is the god of love according to the Greek mythology? Eros also spells rose. Chocolate is the second best gift given on this day, and of course being taken out for a meal at a nice restaurant comes in third. Jewelry is also a favorite gift to give. But whatever the gift, it’s the thought that counts. Don’t you agree? Do you do anything special for the love in your life?
I personally like to spend a nice quiet evening at home with my husband on Valentine’s day. A well decorated table with candles and wine and a delicious home cooked meal with interesting conversation. This is how we spend our Valentine’s day. No flowers, no restaurant, no gifts, probably a nice card with touching words but that’s about it. It’s special for us because we are able to truly enjoy each others company and we listen to each other because of no other distractions. We are in tune with each other.
Do you believe that Valentine’s Day is just for lovers?
Have you ever had a memorable Valentine’s Day celebration? If so why not share your story with us.
written by Claudia Belair
xoxo R!
Pearls & Sequence 