Thanks to pop culture, many people wrongly assume that Valentine’s Day is only a day for people who are in a relationship or in pursuit of starting a relationship with a special someone. We believe this couldn’t be further from the truth.
For us, Valentine’s is a perfect day to show people in your life, how much you care about them. You don’t have to be romantically involved with them or even “in love” with them. Now don’t get us wrong, if you have a special someone, you should certainly flower them with love and thoughtful gifts on February 14th and beyond, but that’s not what this week’s blog is dedicated to.
Instead of playing to the popular pop culture image of Valentine’s Day, we thought it would be interesting to go back to the start of Valentine’s day and explore the beginnings of the most romantic holiday.
How it All Started
Ironically enough, the beginnings of the holiday surrounded by love is thought to be filled with death and mystery. In fact, there are several theories regarding how the holiday started.
The Saint Theory
One theory is that Valentine’s Day began as a remembrance celebration for an early Catholic Saint named, you guessed it, Valentine. Valentine lived in Rome during the Third Century. At this time, Roman Emperor Claudius II outlawed marriage under the pretense that single men made better soldiers. Disagreeing with this, Saint Valentine secretly performed marriages. Long story short, when the emperor found out he quickly had Valentine killed.
The Pagan Theory
Another popular theory is that it was started by Christians in response to the Pagan holiday of Lupercalia which was celebrated on February 15. According to history.com, Lupercalia would begin with an order of priests gathering at the mouth of a cave. Here they would sacrifice a goat for fertility and a dog for purification. Then they dipped strips of goat hide in blood and walked the streets hitting women. This ritual was thought to increase their fertility in the coming year.
Modern Valentine’s Day
Despite its bloody beginnings, Valentine’s Day has morphed into what it is today: The World’s Most Romantic Holiday. Now, people from the US, Canada, Mexico, UK, France and Australia all celebrate the holiday by giving gifts, writing cards, sending flowers and candy, or spending time with the one’s they love.
If you have an elderly loved one in your life, you should do something special for them this Valentine’s Day. It doesn’t have to be big, a card telling them how much you care would mean a lot.
Still not sure what to get them? Check out this blog we wrote discussing 5 great Valentine’s Day gift ideas for your elderly loved one: https://wisercareservices.com/blog/5-valentines-day-gifts-for-your-elderly-loved-one/ .
Wiser Home Care Can Help
As always, Wiser Home Care is here to help you with whatever you need. From providing care to developing an extensive care plan for your loved one, we are happy to help. Please contact us, and we will be happy to answer any questions you may have.