Valentine’s Day

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!

Romance in business?

Given the amount of time and energy that goes into building a business, most startups prefer partnering or teaming up with people they know and trust.  This sometimes works out and sometimes it is just a disaster that can also ruin relationships.

What about romantic partners? This question has been on my mind  lately – is it possible to take that connection you may have or feel with the opposite sex and bring together in a business? And if so, is it possible to then view each other without emotion and compassion and focus on the tasks at hand? The criticism that was once tipped toed around now comes full out and creates the doubt if you and your partner are good enough for each other. If one can not be diligent or detailed oriented at a task does that reflect outside the “work environment” as well? The once need for approval and satisfaction now seems like the person is a control freak so does that mean he/she “controls” you in the relationship?

Truthfully…unless two people completely, honestly respect and trust each other, and are blindly loyal…working with your romantic partner usually ends up putting the personal relationship at an unhappy place. When you start something the tensions are always high, stress and panic mode becomes a way of life, and reassurance that you will not fail is always needed.  Besides friends and family that romantic partner is most needed to be there and support you. Its normal. we are human;  no matter how detached we are during work we still need feel the need to fulfill our emotional needs.

As much as its tempting to work your dreams with the “love” of your life, maybe working towards your dream independently  and having your partner support you in other ways is a better idea.

 

xoxo R!