Valentines Day

Valentines Day. It is that time of year again. February 14. But what is it except another day of the year for shops to make a lot of money? Roses that have quadrupled in price overnight, chocolates on the shelves of every store, red and white stuffed toys etc etc.

Valentines Day or St Valentines Day is the day when people show their affection for another person or people by sending anonymous cards, flowers or chocolates with messages of love.

There are a few theories as to who Valentine was. The most popular was a priest from Rome in the 3rd Century. The then Emporer had banned marriages, suppposing that unmarried men made better soldiers. Valentine argued with this and continued to carry out wedding ceremonies in secret. The Emporer found out and threw him in jail. Valentine fell in love with his jailer's blind daughter and on the day he was killed, February 14, he sent a letter to his love, signed From your Valentine. This was the first Valentine.

It is also believed to have Pagan origins, to do with Fertility celebrated in the middle of February. Boys would draw girls names from a box, and these would be boy and girl friend for the festival and sometimes married after. The Christian church when taking over the Pagan rituals decided to claim it and use it to remember the death of St Valentine.

Cupid became the mascot for Valentines Day as the son of the Roman god Venus the god of Love and Beauty.

It has also become a popular tradition for Valentines to be given at schools. This can cause a lot of joy for the receiver, especially if they get more than one, or great sorrow, for those that don't get any. I have always made sure that I give my kids a note in their lunch box on Valentines Day. Just a little I love you. I think it makes their day. Also one in hubby's lunch if I make it that day for him as well.

Valentines Day is not just about love, but to show someone that you care. This can be a handwritten note, a card, a gift, a flower or just a kind gesture. I have taught my kids too that Valentines Day is a Random Day of Kindness. They have to do something for someone else, anonymously, someone that they may not spend time with, even someone that they don't particularly like. I think that to do this, it enhances the spirit of sharing of ourselves, and just might give someone a little buzz.

For those that live in Brisbane, the City Council are running a list of Activities. For a comprehensive list check out the links.

I have also included some articles on Minti that give ideas for Valentines.

So have a Happy Valentine's Day. And remember don't feel left out if you don't receive a card, it is the giving that counts.

Leisa