By Sheree Hoddinett
While we associate Valentine’s Day with romance, kissing, flowers and love, its original meaning seems to go way back in history and it’s certainly not a pretty one. Although there are many versions of how it all came about, some stories suggest it started in Ancient Rome where an emperor executed two men, both named Valentine on February 14 in different years of the third century. Their martyrdom was honoured by the Catholic Church with the celebration of Valentine’s Day.
From there it is believed the day was mixed and combined with Lupercalia to expel the pagan rituals. Another celebration called Galatin’s Day (Galatin meaning “lover of women”) also existed at the time and it is thought it may have been confused with Valentine’s Day because they sounded similar. As the years went on, the idea behind Valentine’s Day became more of a loved-up affair, spurred on by some of Shakespeare’s romantic work and the popularity of the day grew.
Over more recent years it has morphed into the day we know it as now, one very commercialised event! It still varies by meaning, some choose to ignore it completely, others celebrate it as a day for single people and those who like to buy things will go to great lengths to purchase jewellery, chocolates, flowers or take their special person on a romantic dinner date.
Given we all look at things differently in the world and let’s face it the best way to get a true opinion on something is to ask the kids. They have no filter and say exactly what comes into their young minds. So as we head towards the one day of the year that’s filled with ‘love’ - Valentine’s Day - I thought it was the perfect opportunity to ask some of the younger members of the community what they think Valentine’s Day is about.
Lexie – I don’t know much about Valentine’s Day. But you see lots of flowers, cards, chocolates and the colours pink and red. Lots of couples get all lovey dovey.
Brayden – I don’t really know what it means. Spending time with the people you love lots and lots.
Holly – It’s a day for couples and it’s all about love.
Sophie – Flowers and hearts. It’s also a day to share love.
Harper – It’s about spending time with people you love, like your Mum because she loves me.
Jemima – It’s a day when shops trick you into buying things.
Hamish - Dad always tries to buy Mum the ugliest flowers.
Lulu - It’s all about looooove. And chocolates.
Hazel - it's about love and stuff and buying stuff. Then it's smoochy kisses and cuddles, but only for the parents, no one else.
Will - It’s about disgusting kissing.
Archie – I don’t know what Valentine’s Day is.
Out of the mouths of babes couldn’t be more true in this case! Although I must admit when I think of Valentine’s Day I picture Cupid with his bow and love-filled arrows. I’m old enough to know it’s definitely not about that, but I agree with the kids; flowers, hearts and chocolates certainly play a big part!
Happy Valentine’s Day!!
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