I'm just kidding. I had to get your attention. Here's the truth about Valentine's Day.
Do you know how the whole concept of Saint Valentine's Day began? It's a fascinating story that dates back to the 3rd century AD.
The origins of Valentine's Day can be traced back to a Roman festival called Lupercalia, which was celebrated in mid-February. During Lupercalia, young men would draw the names of young women from a box and pair up with them for the duration of the festival. This practice was believed to promote fertility and matchmaking.
Over time, Lupercalia evolved into a more romantic holiday, and the focus shifted from matchmaking to celebrating love and affection. In the 5th century AD, Pope Gelasius I declared February 14th to be Saint Valentine's Day, in honor of a Christian martyr named Valentine.
The legend of Saint Valentine is shrouded in mystery, but it is believed that he was a priest who performed secret marriages for couples who were forbidden from marrying. He was eventually caught and executed on February 14th, 270 AD.
In the centuries that followed, Saint Valentine's Day became a popular holiday for lovers to express their affection for each other. It is now celebrated worldwide, with people exchanging cards, flowers, and gifts to show their love and appreciation.
Being Italian like I always say, we invented everything.
See you in the funny papers.
JW
