Valentine’s Day is celebrated every year on the 14th of February, it’s a day when people around the globe rejoice in love, expressing their affection through heartfelt cards, vibrant flowers, and delicious chocolates. But imagine a time when marriage was forbidden—a time when two souls, deeply in love, were cruelly denied their chance at a happily ever after. To discover the origins of our celebration of Valentine’s Day, continue reading.

There are numerous stories about the origins of Valentine’s Day, and how we came to celebrate 14th February as a day for love. Popular beliefs suggest that the day was named after Saint Valentine, a priest who served in Rome during the 3rd century AD, under the rule of Emperor Claudius II.

The Roman Empire faced a tough time in the 3rd century, getting hit by repeated outside attacks and serious problems within, including the murders of emperors, religious turmoil and economic troubles. It was during this tumultuous time that marriage became forbidden.

Emperor Claudius II and his army were involved in numerous battles, and soldiers had to devote a significant amount of time away from home. Due to this big commitment, many soldiers felt homesick and were reluctant to leave their families behind. This declining morale led Claudius II to believe that married men didn’t make very good soldiers, prompting him to ban marriages altogether.

Many felt that the Emperor was being unfair, including Saint Valentine, who chose not to follow this rule and instead quietly started helping couples arrange their marriage.

Soon after, Claudius II discovered the truth and had Saint Valentine arrested and sentenced to death. Some of the more famous versions of this story suggest that Valentine fell in love with his jailor’s blind daughter, and before he was executed, he sent her a love letter signed, “From Your Valentine.”

Today, when individuals express their love, they often sign letters and cards with ‘Your Valentine,’ not realizing that they are also commemorating Saint Valentine, who is believed to have been executed on 14th February. It is in honor of Saint Valentine’s sacrifice and efforts that we now celebrate 14th February as a day of love and a time to express affection. This day has evolved beyond a mere date on the calendar; it has become a global phenomenon that celebrates love, uniting couples across all boundaries with joy and togetherness.

This Valentine’s Day, take a moment to truly appreciate the people you love and acknowledge their unwavering efforts and sacrifices. In today’s fast-paced world, it’s increasingly rare to find the time to nurture our relationships with loved ones. Amidst our many responsibilities, it can feel challenging, yet we only have one life to live. As we commemorate Saint Valentine’s Day, let us remember the importance of love and connection. Ultimately, it falls upon each of us to prioritize spending quality time with those we cherish, for these moments are the heartbeats of our lives.