(pic used without permission, original by phenomdesire taken from Deviant Art)So it is here again, my least favorite holiday of the year, Valentines day. What a crappy day it is if you don't have someone. But that is not really what this post is about. For the rest of the year I will posting some history (an interest of mine) about each major holiday as it arrives.
Valentines Day History.
There are varying opinions as to the origin of Valentine's Day. Some experts state that it originated from St. Valentine, a Roman who was martyred for refusing to give up Christianity. He died on February 14, 269 A.D., the same day that had been devoted to love lotteries. Legend also says that St. Valentine left a farewell note for the jailer's daughter, who had become his friend, and signed it "From Your Valentine". Other aspects of the story say that Saint Valentine served as a priest at the temple during the reign of Emperor Claudius. Claudius then had Valentine jailed for defying him. In 496 A.D. Pope Gelasius set aside February 14 to honour St. Valentine.
Gradually, February 14 became the date for exchanging love messages and St. Valentine became the patron saint of lovers. The date was marked by sending poems and simple gifts such as flowers. There was often a social gathering or a ball.
I hope your V-Day was pleasant with you significant other, lover, mistress, or one night stand ;). I probably spent the day playing Halo and painting or something... See you next time.
Valentine's Day is one of my least favorite holidays as well. If you love someone, why should you need a special day to go up to that person and say, "I love you." Bunch of marketing hooey. And way to make anyone who is single feel unloved, like there's something wrong with being a single person.
ReplyDelete~Carol