Sunday, February 12, 2006
Cariño: Celebrating Valentine's Day
By Linda Garce Cariño
Paradigm shift
THE 14th of February is celebrated the world over as a day for lovers. It is this day, more than any other day in the year, when we find something special to give to the loved one. Traditionally, gifts and greetings are exchanged, special something are given and received.
It is said that the first Valentine ever was sent by a priest condemned to death in third century Rome for marrying couples against the e will of the Emperor, then Claudius II. One may wonder at that, and rightfully. Why would a priest be in such a position?
Supposedly, Claudius was convinced that married men made poor soldiers, since they suffered by being away from their families, and thus performed poorly on the battlefields. Hence, the decree banning all marriages.
The priest, however, willfully broke the law, believing that couples who loved each other could and should be married. So he married them. And was jailed for it. His name was Valentine.
He went on to befriend the jailer and fall in love with the jailer's sister. Notwithstanding, he was beheaded on February 14th. Before his execution, he sent a letter to his sweetheart - signed, "From your Valentine." The first Valentine had been sent.
And thus, while there's certainly an entire "couples" paradigm to the whole Valentine Day shebang, it is surely also a good day to remind ourselves of the blessing of love, from the bigger picture. Also a good day to say "I love you" to those we do love. And send up heartfelt prayer for their well being.
Happy Valentine's Day!
(February 12, 2006 issue)
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