A sentimental love card for the "one and only," a special gift for a "special lady" and let's not forget dinner at the finest place in town.
If the ancient Romans were to travel to February 2007, they might be a little confused as to how St. Valentine's Day has become what it is now.
St. Valentine became a Roman martyr for his Christian faith in 269 C.E. on Feb. 14. A little over two hundred years later, Pope Gelasius set aside the in honor of him.
During the rule of Emperor Claudius II, Rome was involved in countless bloody wars. Claudius had difficulty enlisting men into his military. Believing it was because men did not want to leave their families or loved ones, he decided to rid Rome of love and the formation of families. He called off all engagements and prohibited all future marriages in Rome.
St. Valentine coupled with St. Marius to marry couples in secret. They were successful until St. Valentine was caught in action and sentenced to death.
Claudius's rule was detested amongst the citizens. Many visited St. Valentine's cell, throwing flowers and friendly notes through the window. Thus, the flower and card motif that is so popular today was born.
On the day of his death, St. Valentine wrote one last note to the daughter of a prison guard who became his friend, signing it "your valentine."
As the years progressed "will you be my valentine" became the popular question from one potential lover to another. The popular phrase can be translated logically to "will you save my love"- just as St. Valentine did 1700 years ago.
Today, Valentine's Day has been dubbed the "Hallmark holiday." Approximately one billion cards or valentines are sent each year, making Valentine's Day the second-largest card sending holiday after Christmas.
Certainly, St. Valentine did not know what he started.
