How do I love thee? Let me count the ways.
I love thee to the depth and breadth and height
My soul can reach, when feeling out of sight
For the ends of being and ideal grace.
I love thee to the level of every day’s
Most quiet need, by sun and candle-light.
I love thee freely, as men strive for right.
I love thee purely, as they turn from praise.
I love thee with the passion put to use
In my old griefs, and with my childhood’s faith.
I love thee with a love I seemed to lose
With my lost saints. I love thee with the breath,
Smiles, tears, of all my life; and, if God choose,
I shall but love thee better after death.
~Elizabeth Barret Browning, How Do I Love Thee
Origins and Legends
The origins of Valentine’s Day are shrouded in mystery, with several legends contributing to its rich history. Here are a few fascinating tales associated with this amorous occasion!
Saint Valentine and Forbidden Love:
One popular legend traces back to ancient Rome during the reign of Emperor Claudius II. The emperor believed that single men made better soldiers, so he outlawed marriage for young men. Saint Valentine, a Christian priest, defied this decree and continued to perform secret marriages for couples in love. When his actions were discovered, he was imprisoned and eventually executed on February 14th.
While in jail, Saint Valentine allegedly fell in love with the jailer’s daughter and sent her a heartfelt letter signed, “From your Valentine.” This phrase has endured through the ages and is still used today.
(source)
Chaucer’s Influence:
Geoffrey Chaucer, the English poet, played a significant role in popularizing Valentine’s Day. In his poem “Parliament of Fowls,” written in the 14th century, he linked the day with romantic love. Chaucer described birds choosing their mates on Valentine’s Day, adding a touch of whimsy to the occasion.
The Rise of Romantic Gifting:
By the 18th century, exchanging handwritten love notes and small tokens of affection became common practice. People began giving flowers, chocolates, and other sentimental gifts to express their feelings.
The Victorian era further elevated the tradition, emphasizing elaborate cards adorned with lace, ribbons, and intricate designs.
(source)
Modern Celebrations
Fast forward to the present day, and Valentine’s Day has evolved into a celebration marked by various customs:
Romantic Gestures:
Couples exchange heartfelt cards, expressing their love and appreciation for one another. These cards, often adorned with red hearts and Cupid imagery, convey sentiments that words alone cannot capture.
Flowers, particularly red roses, symbolize love and passion. The act of giving flowers on Valentine’s Day remains a timeless tradition.
Chocolates and Sweet Treats:
Chocolate has become synonymous with love. Boxes of assorted chocolates, truffles, and heart-shaped confections fill store shelves, tempting sweethearts everywhere.
Sharing a decadent dessert with your loved one over candlelight adds a touch of romance to the evening.
Date Nights and Intimate Dinners:
Many couples choose Valentine’s Day for a special date night. Whether it’s a cozy dinner at home or a reservation at a fancy restaurant, the focus is on quality time together.
Some even opt for creative experiences like cooking classes, wine tastings, or stargazing under the night sky.
(source)
Beyond Romantic Love
While Valentine’s Day is often associated with romantic love, it has expanded to celebrate all forms of affection. Friends, family members, and even pets receive tokens of appreciation. Galentine’s Day, celebrated on February 13th, honors female friendships and camaraderie.
So, whether you’re planning a grand romantic gesture or simply sending a heartfelt message to someone you care about, Valentine’s Day reminds us to cherish love in all its beautiful forms. After all, love knows no boundaries. It’s the universal language that connects us all.
Perhaps you are one who celebrates love each day of the year. I like to think that I am one of those.
There was a guy at the Mall yesterday morning handing out roses to his special lady friends. Of course Cindy and I did not get one, but then we are not his friends, but I thought it was a very nice gesture on his part and his elderly lady friends certainly were tickled by the gift and the thoughtfulness behind it.
No matter how you choose to celebrate this day, whether it be traditional or otherwise, I never think that loving and sharing love for each other is a bad thing.
This is also the first day of Lent. The day after Shrove Tuesday. It is not something which is practiced in my religion. Known as Ash Wednesday, it is the Christian season of spiritual preparation before Easter. It begins on Ash Wednesday and lasts for 40 days, based on the Bible episodes of Jesus’ wilderness testing and his Temptation. It is usual to observe a period of fasting, repentance, moderation, self-denial, and spiritual discipline during this time. Many people give up something they love for Lent. Such as chocolate.
Pity it starts on Valentine's this year. Kind of Ironic, don't you think?
And if you've gotten this far, then you truly are a friend. Happy Valentines Day!
A thought to carry with you . . .
° * 。 • ˚ ˚ ˛ ˚ ˛ •
•。★★ 。* 。
° 。 ° ˛˚˛ * _Π_____*。*˚
˚ ˛ •˛•˚ */______/~＼。˚ ˚ ˛
˚ ˛ •˛• ˚ ｜ 田田 ｜門 ★
•。★★ 。* 。
° 。 ° ˛˚˛ * _Π_____*。*˚
˚ ˛ •˛•˚ */______/~＼。˚ ˚ ˛
˚ ˛ •˛• ˚ ｜ 田田 ｜門 ★
*We can complain because
rose bushes have thorns,
or we can rejoice because
thorn bushes have roses.•。★★ 。* 。
~Alphonse Karr•。★★ 。* 。
•。★★ 。* 。
Because I was out most of the day yesterday I didn't have time to actually cook a new recipe for today, but I did put together a post for Valentine's Day. Planning a Valentine's Day Menu that Pleases. Just a few suggestions on what a person could do.
Dad was really surprised and pleased that we showed up to share breakfast with him yesterday morning. I love my dad so much. I love that I can do these things with Cindy as well. As you know I really do enjoy my times spent with her. Making up for all of those years we lived really far apart. We always said we were going to live out our old age together like the Baldwin sister's on The Waltons. It may not be exactly the same, but its close enough and my life is blessed by it for sure!
I hope you have a truly lovely day. Whatever you get up to, don't forget!
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