Valentine's Day

Valentine's Day is a day that is undoubtedly dreaded by many. I know I have dreaded it before. It puts a lot of pressure on existing couples, many with the impression that giving materialistic gifts worth lots of money is the only way to be a good partner. And for everyone else, well…

I’ve rarely seen people excited by this exact holiday. In fact I’ve never seen anyone dread a holiday more than this one.

Aware of the unfair and probably unreachable expectations, people like me will still feel the insecurities and will be throwing down lots of cash this Valentine’s. I mean, how else am I supposed to express love if it isn't with money?

But where does this dreaded Valentine's day come from?

Blame the ancient Romans.

Emperor Claudius II executed two men, both saints named Valentine, on Feb. 14 of different years in the 3rd century A.D. The Christian church however recognizes three saints named Valentine, all of whom were executed. Some of these men were commemorated in history for heroic deeds, so the church decided to honor their martyrdom by celebrating the day.

It is argued which is the true story for the first Valentine. Some say he married young couples in secret after emperor Claudius outlawed marriage. Others say he tried to save Christians from harsh Roman prisons. Nonetheless, he was caught and executed.

Later, Valentine’s day was combined with Lupercalia and turned into a theatrical festival about fertility and love.

What was Lupercalia? Well, it is where Valentine’s got the fertility and love aspect of the holiday.

When the ancient Romans celebrated Lupercalia, people would run around .. uhh …

They would uhhh…

Hmm, you can do your own research.

Lupercalia eventually was outlawed when Christianity rolled around. It was deemed “anti-Christian” for seemingly obvious reasons. However, Lupercalia, not anything like in ancient times, still lives on through Valentine’s Day.

Many people believe that Valentine's Day is a waste of time. Some say it should NOT be celebrated due to its relation with Lupercalia.

I say we celebrate it for what it is. To some it may be spending lots of money, or maybe spending time. To many it won't be anything at all, and that's fine. Who in modern times ever said it had to be for someone you love romantically? I'm sure everyone loves something, or someone. Celebrate that.

Now if you'll excuse me, I need to go purchase a 70 dollar giant teddy bear.