Where there is love there is life.
– Mahatma Gandhi, Indian political ethicist who advocated nonviolent resistance
Happy Valentine’s Day to you! I hope love and affection is all around you.
Valentine’s Day, a day for love, a time for couples to show each other how much they care and to celebrate their special bond.
As I am sure you already know, it is celebrated annually on February 14. If some of you have forgotten, you might be reminded subtly or not so subtly for that matter, by a loved one.
Valentine’s Day has a long and rich history and is marked by various romantic and celebratory activities.
The exact origins of Valentine’s Day are uncertain and remain open to speculation. One version is that it has its roots in Ancient Roman culture, where the god Cupid and the goddess Juno were worshipped.
Another version says it is derived from the Roman festival of Lupercalia, which was held in mid-February and was a festival dedicated to the fertility god Faunus.
Yet another version says it is in honour of Valentine, who was martyred in ancient Rome for secretly marrying couples in defiance of the Roman Empire’s ban on marriage and was ultimately executed for his crimes.
Valentine’s Day became known as a day of love and romance, especially during the Middle Ages.
In the 14th century, Geoffrey Chaucer wrote a poem, Parliament of Foules, which references Valentine’s Day. The poem talks about the tradition of birds picking their mates on February 14.
Over time, the story has become associated with love and romance. It has evolved into a celebration of love in all its forms with no associations with religion, celebrated worldwide as a time to express love and affection.
While love letters might have been popular in days gone past, it is more likely that messages of affection are sent by instant messaging nowadays.
However, if you want to stand out from the crowd, I suggest sending a love letter, especially if you are wooing someone special.
Technology provides ways to stay connected and celebrate the day for couples who live apart, such as virtual dinner dates and sending gift packages.
Over the years, some of you would have tried some more popular ways of celebrating Valentine’s Day. Sending gifts and cards to loved ones, speciality chocolates and flowers, jewellery and romantic keepsakes, and not to mention romantic dinners.
The commercial aspect also provides excellent opportunities for the business sector. Price of flowers, speciality chocolates and dinner booking come at premium pricing during Valentine’s.
Valentine’s Day is not just for couples – it is a day for everyone to celebrate love, romance, and affection in all its forms. Whether it is the love between partners, friends, or family members, this day is a chance to show appreciation and gratitude for the people in our lives who mean the most to us.
It can still be a memorable and enjoyable occasion for single people. Treat yourself, go out with friends, or do something you love, and celebrate your love for yourself.
Remember, being single does not mean being alone; there are many opportunities to connect with others and make new friends.
Valentine’s Day is an excellent opportunity for families to spend quality time together. From cooking a special meal and playing games to taking a family outing or going on a picnic, there are many ways to make this day special for everyone in the household.
It can also be an excellent opportunity for communities to come together and celebrate love in all its forms. From charity events and volunteer work to neighbourhood parties and get-togethers, there are many ways to show love and support for those around us.
Valentine’s Day is a time to celebrate love, romance, and affection in all its forms. Whether with a loved one, friends, family, or even yourself, this special day is a time to show appreciation and gratitude for the people and things in our lives that matter the most.
I do make an attempt from time to time to celebrate with flowers and dinner for my wife. I ought to be more regular and consistent.
Whether you opt for a fancy dinner, a thoughtful gift, or a day spent doing something you love, there are many ways to make this day unique and memorable.
So, on this Valentine’s Day and every day after that, let us celebrate our love and cherish the moments that matter the most.
Valentine’s Day is for everyone, and let us preserve this tradition of love for each other!
The views expressed here are those of the columnist and do not necessarily represent the views of New Sarawak Tribune.
