Hearts begin to beat just a little faster as eyes lock from across the room and cupid has his arrow ready to strike at any moment. Love is grand!
St. Valentine's Day is named for the Priest, Valentine, during third century Rome who performed secret marriages for young men and their sweetheart when Emperor Claudius II outlawed young men to marry. The Emperor had hoped that by outlawing young men to marry, the number of his soldiers would increase as it was believed that many young men wanted to stay behind with their love instead. When the Emperor discovered Valentine's actions, it was ordered
that he be put to death. It isn't for sure how Saint Valentine died, if he truly was executed, or if he died from illness while in prison, but his ashes are believed to be in a black and gold casket in a church in Dublin, Ireland. The casket was given to an Irish Priest in 1835 by Pope Gregory XVI.Another neat piece of information; Cupid, the adorable, chubby and naked little angel we come to relate St. Valentine's Day with, is known as the son of Venus, the Roman Goddess of Love.
Don't think of Valentine's Day as a day just for lovers, but think of the others who love you as well; your children, Parents, Grandparents, relatives, and friends. You will realize how much you are special and very much loved. Don't forget to mail out those Valentine's Day cards to tell those you love how much they mean to you.
Happy Valentine's Day!
