One of the earliest popular symbols of the Valentine's day is Cupid, the Roman god of love, who is represented by the image of a young boy with bow and arrow. You see this image adorning shop windows, fronts of cards and in children's Valentine packets. This is the cutesie side of Valentine's and in my view, the most popular.
Then there's the story that came about three hundred years after the death of Jesus Christ where the Roman emperors still demanded that everyone believe in the Roman gods. Valentine, a Christian priest, had been thrown in prison for his teachings. On February 14, Valentine was beheaded, not only because he was a Christian, but also because he had performed a miracle. He supposedly cured the jailer's daughter of her blindness. The night before he was executed, he wrote the jailer's daughter a farewell letter, signing it "From Your Valentine." Another legend tells us that this same Valentine, well-loved by all, received notes to his jail cell from children and friends who missed him. Not the best of stories but a good one to tell to those who are interested.
And way back on AD 200 (was there really such a time?) an Italian Bishop was imprisoned for secretly marrying couples which was contrary to the laws of the Roman emperor. Some legends say he was burned at the stake. Yikes...Beheaded, Burned at the stake! How did this day become such fun?
Now if you can believe this one! It is said that birds pick their mates on Feb 14th. I guess that's why so many couples get engaged on Valentines' Day. Go Figure!
The whole business of Valentine's Day has grown substantially over the centuries and is still celebrated in many cultures. Whether you send Valentine Roses, Valentine Chocolates, Valentine Cards or simply say I Love You on this romantic day, say it with love and cupid will shine down on you and maybe shoot his arrow your way.
Happy Valentine's Day from Blossoms Florist & Boutique!
.jpg)
No comments:
Post a Comment