14th February: Valentine’s Day

Valentine’s Day began as St. Valentine’s Day, a liturgical celebration of one or more early Christian saints named Valentinus.  February 14th first became associated with romantic love during the High Middle Ages as the tradition of courtly love was then flourishing. During 18th century England, this day evolved into an occasion in which lovers expressed their love for each other by presenting flowers, offering confectionery and sending Valentine cards.

Mixed opinions prevail regarding who or what was celebrated in mid-February. Some point to martyred saints by the name of Valentine or Valentinus. The most popular story tells of the saint who defied a decree by Emperor Claudius II who outlawed marriage for young men because he believed single men made better soldiers. St. Valentine, preferring young lovers to be wed than have them sneaking around (or believing in the power of love), would marry them in secret. However, it may have been another Valentine who performed the marriages. Either way, at least two of them were beheaded for their actions.

Another possible origin for Valentine’s Day takes us back to a pagan festival called Lupercalia. As a way to discourage participation in the fertility festival, the Christian church placed St. Valentine’s Day in the middle of February.

They prepare for the day by making unique boxes to receive their many hearts, cupids, and pun-filled rhymes. Chocolates and candy have also become a part of the celebration. While couples tend to be the focus of the day, singles celebrate being single, too. Friends take each other out or reject the overall notion of Valentine’s Day. Dinner and a movie, candlelight, and flowers also fit the bill for couples. It’s one of the busiest days of the year for florists.

Love Quotes

Where there is Love, There is Life.
Love is a better teacher than duty.
Love is composed of a single soul inhabiting two bodies.
I’m much more me when I’m with you.
Life without love is like a tree without blossoms or fruit.
“Love is like the wind, you can’t see it but you can feel it.”
The giving of love is an education in itself.
In your life my infinite dreams live.
You are my heart, my life, my one and only thought.
I am who I am because of you.
I look at you and see the rest of my life in front of my eyes.