The significance of Valentine's Day

It is believed that Valentine’s Day which is February 14th originated with Juno, who was the Queen of the Roman Gods and Goddesses. Juno is also the protector spirit of all females. In Roman times this day February 14 which was a day of “festival” the boys would pick a girl’s name from a jar and they would be partners for the duration of the Festival. Often they would fall in love and get married. At that time this was not a Christian holiday since Christianity did not exist yet.

It is only around the year 270 that this changed. A roman priest called St Valentine, would secretly marry young couples at a time when marriage was prohibited by the roman emperor. Eventually he would be killed. Many of the current legends that characterise Saint Valentine were invented in the fourteenth century in England, by Geoffrey Chaucer when the feast day of February 14 first became associated with romantic love.

Valentine’s Day greetings became popular in the middle ages. A British Museum has on display the most likely oldest Valentine dating from the 1400’s. This holiday has certainly evolved over the centuries, but it is still a celebration of love.

All though many times without understanding the reason behind this day to a child of a young age this day can be nerve wracking and fun since everyone seems to give a special card to all their friends. In their teen years things start to change regarding this day. Both of the sexes give to only a select few of their friends a Valentine card. Since they now start to have romantic feelings about each other the day starts to take on a more meaningful and special significance.

Most adult females regard this day as a very romantic and special day. They expect something romantic from their partners. This can vary from a card, a flower, and a special piece of jewellery which is always very much pleasing a romantic dinner can also be lovely.

Men also enjoy this day since many of them have a difficult time expressing themselves with words of endearment. Valentine’s Day seems to be the perfect venue for them.