On February 14th, a national holiday called “Valentine’s Day” is celebrated. The celebration of the holiday began in the 5th century but became a holiday of romance in the 14th century.
The real story of Valentine’s day is unique. The celebration originated in Christendom, as a celebration of Saint Valentine’s birthday, February 14th. It was then marked by the Western of Christendom in honor of one of the Christian martyrs named Valentine. There is another version of the holiday which was once around. In Roman religion way before Valentine’s day, a festival took place. It had nothing to do with love but was celebrated around the same time of year. The festival was called Lupercalia. It occurred every year on February 15th in ancient Rome. Instead of the usual flowers and chocolates, the festival was celebrated with rituals. Both of these may not be the same but one similarity between the two is the insane amount of passion shown.
A modern day symbol or the representation of holiday is the Roman god named Cupid. Cupid is the god of desire, erotic love, attraction, and affection. In most movies or shows that have something to do with Valentine’s day or love, a common reference is Cupid’s bow and arrow. It is said that the soft and small look of the bows and arrows are a symbol of gentle romance instead of death-dealing war. In folklore it says victims of Cupid’s arrows were wounded with love and passion in every shot he took.
Nowadays, Valentine’s day is celebrated with romantic gestures. Some people show this by giving their partner chocolates and flowers, or stuffed animals and other gifts. Other people go above and beyond by taking their loved one to a fancy dinner or taking them on a trip. Valentine’s day is the perfect holiday for people whose love language is acts of service. It is also a great holiday to show the people you care about the most, just really how much you care. When asking Saugus freshman Chloe Donoyan she said “last year I got a long note, flowers, a stuffed animal, and socks. I think for most people that’s an ideal and smart gift.” Although when asking Saugus junior Jaelyn Kim she said “I prefer most gifts that will last a long time, like jewelry.” If you’re not sure what to get someone a good idea would be getting their favorite candy, flowers, and a nice card.
All in all, Valentine’s Day has always been a day for passion. Whether it’s sacrifices or giving gifts to a loved one, it is a day to show someone how much you care. Happy Valentine’s Day!!
