Valentine’s Day is that one day when we celebrate love – love not only for our fiancée or husband – but love for anybody, for our parents, friends, brothers, sisters, anybody. Valentine’s Day is named after the famous Saint Valentine. This day was established in 496 AD by Pope Gelasius I. Pope Gelasius I was the third and last bishop of Rome of African origin in the Catholic Church. Valentine’s Day is an annual commemoration that is held on February 14 celebrating love and affection between dear companions. It been said that this day St. Valentine was martyred for refusing to give up Christianity.
It is a traditional day, wherein lovers express their love for each other through gifts, greeting cards, flowers, confectionary, etc.
There have been several stories behind the celebration of Valentine’s Day. As per one legend, Valentine actually sent the first “valentine” greeting himself. Some say that St. Valentine left a farewell note for the jailer’s daughter, who had become his friend and lover, and signed it “From Your Valentine”. It was told that she had visited St. Valentine during his imprisonment. Other aspects of the story reveal that St. Valentine served as a priest at the temple during the reign of Emperor Claudius. The Emperor had Valentine jailed for defying him. In yet another story suggests that Valentine may have been killed for attempting to help Christians escape harsh Roman prisons on being beaten and tormented.
There are some other stories of Valentine’s Day. Valentine’s Day started during the time of Roman Empire. In ancient Rome, February 14th, was celebrated to honor Juno who was the queen of the Roman Gods and Goddesses. Queen Juno was also known as the Goddess of woman and marriage.
However, the truth behind the Valentine is still shadowy, the tales certainly highlights his petition as a compassionate, laudable, and most importantly, romantic figure. One would be surprised to know that Valentine was one of the most popular saints in England and France.
In Great Britain, Valentine’s Day began to be popularly celebrated around the 17th century. By the end of the century, printed cards were used to express love and affection for friends and lovers.
The Greeting Card Association estimated that one billion valentine cards are sent each year; making Valentine’s Day the second largest card – sending holiday after Christmas.
Love is in the air…enjoy Valentine’s Day…. Make your Valentine feel special… Express your feelings for it is the day of expressing your love … Spread love…..
