Here’s To You, Mr. Valentine

By Candy

Whether you’re flying solo (a.k.a. wishing your crush would send you a few dozen roses) or spending the night with your significant other (a.k.a. expecting an expensive dinner … maybe some jewelry), it’s important to remember that this holiday for lovers isn’t just about all the stuff. The truth is, Valentine’s Day exists because of a Saint. And we’d like to give him a little shout out.

The story goes like this …

Mr. Valentine sacrificed his life in the name of love. At a time in ancient Rome where marriage was forbidden, this ballsy bishop wed couples in secret. Legend has it that while awaiting persecution for his bad boy actions, Valentine fell in love with the prison guard’s daughter. And upon the day of his death, he left her a farewell message that read “From Your Valentine” — hence, the origin of Valentine’s Day cards. From then on, Roman men instituted the custom of offering women they wished to court handwritten greetings of affection on the 14th. It’s no wonder that he became known as the “lovers” saint.

And the rest is history.

So instead of bemoaning “Single Awareness Day” or getting mad at your boyfriend for slacking on the gifts (hey, he can’t even remember his own birthday), remember where love day spawned from – you may just see it in whole new light.