โIt is the day that many of us celebrate with a loved one every February. Thatโs right, itโs Valentineโs Day. Draped in flowers, candy, teddy bears, special dinner reservations, and more, it is the day that couples showcase how much they truly love each other. This long celebrated ritual of love has been around since the 14th century (donโt quote me lol) and still continues to be a staple in our year-long list of holidays.
โThere are many stories behind the origin of Valentineโs Day and who exactly is Valentine. One story talks about Saint Valentine being a priest serving during the third century in Rome. It is said that Emperor Claudius II outlawed young men from marrying because a married man was not fit to be a true, strong soldier. Saint Valentine didnโt see it that way however and continued to wed young couples until his untimely death by the orders of the Emperor.
Other stories say the holiday is about Saint Valentine of Terni, a bishop who was a true namesake to the holiday. Or a prisoner named Valentine who fell in love with the jailor’sย daughter, who would visit him daily, and had written her the very 1st love note before his execution. In the note, he signed it with โFrom your Valentine.โ
last minute pick me ups
Whatever the story may be, it has contributed to years of romantic plans for all those who are coupled. The minute January turns over to February, you canโt help but to be engulfed in the reds, pinks, and whites ingrained in the v-cards, stuffed animals, and candy of this holiday. Men and women plotting a night out on the town or a quiet stay at home for their significant others. Some even go above and beyond to plan a getaway. Valentineโs day is also known for the day of engagement. As clichรฉ as it may sound, for some, it is the perfect setting to pop that question of eternal love. For as long as I could remember, Iโve watched those around me spend their hard-earned money planning out this night, this special night. And the romantic in me always admired that, to have someone to spend this day with.
My first and only valentine’s day card was in the 2nd grade. I remember the teacher had stopped teaching the class towards the end of the day just so my classmates and I could give those we liked a valentine. Of course at that age, we truly were unaware of what the holiday meant as an adult. Yet it was still an adorable thing to see. After giving out mines, I sat and watched as my classmates walked around, handed out their homemade, and some bought valentines to others. My eyes wandered the room just anticipating at least 3.
But when it didnโt happen, my little heart was broken and I believe I cried as I sat there alone. It was kind of like Charlie Brown in real life. It wasnโt for too long because this little boy who was so infatuated with me gave me this little red and pink card and one of those candy hearts with the writing on it that said: โBe Minesโ. My eyes lit up and even at that little age I was excited and thrilled to have gotten one
As much as people frown more and more upon the holiday, I admit including myself, itโs nice to feel extra special for a day, to feel wanted and loved even more. It is a day to clear all stresses and everyday tasks out the way, to breathe and enjoy the presence of someone. And while most give such lavish gifts to their girlfriends, boyfriends, wives or husbands, I love that there are those who are happiest with the smaller things, the intimate gifts. That would be my cup of tea.
To plan a special night with my significant other at a small, quaint Italian or seafood restaurant and exchanging meaningful, intimate gifts (if he got me a big bag of my favorite salt and vinegar chips, Iโd be happy) and spend the rest of the time just walking until we got back home. That would be the best night on this special day.ย
Although I have yet to experience my 1st true Valentineโs day with someone special in my life, I can appreciate it for what it is. Iโve spent many years alone on this holiday since that 2nd-grade exchange hating on this day. But deep down, I still find it to be romantic. And Iโm sure the day I finally get that chance to share it with the person I love, it would be even that much more special. So go out, plan big or small, leave all the naysayers and negativity at the door, and flow with the overwhelming love. May you all enjoy each other on this Valentineโs day. Photo by Git Stephen Gitau from Pexels
Until next time this is Tammy saying keep strong, keep positive and nothingโs impossible!!!
“Red Roses” – Photo by PicJumbo.com from Pexels
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