As the world celebrates Valentine’s Day, many are unaware of the true story behind this holiday. The day has become synonymous with grand romantic gestures, expensive gifts, and social media bragging rights.
Origin of Valentine’s Day
However, the origins of Valentine’s Day tell a different story – one of selfless love, sacrifice, and devotion.
Saint Valentine, a priest from Rome, lived during the 3rd century AD. According to legend, Valentine was imprisoned by Judge Asterius for his Christian faith. During his imprisonment, Valentine healed the judge’s blind daughter and converted the judge and his entire household to Christianity. Valentine’s bravery and selflessness ultimately led to his execution. His legacy, however, lived on, inspiring generations to practice unconditional love and compassion.
Fast-forward to the present day, Valentine’s Day has become a multibillion-dollar industry. The holiday has been reduced to a celebration of romantic love, with many people feeling pressured to participate in the festivities while some end up with heartbreaks caused by high expectations not met.
I have no objection to celebrating love but I feel that Valentine’s Day has become an excuse for people to flaunt their relationships on social media, leaving those who are single (like myself) or in non-traditional relationships feeling left out or inadequate.
Valentine’s Day should not be about material possessions or grand gestures but about practicing agape love – unconditional, selfless love that prioritizes the well-being of others.
As we celebrate Valentine’s Day, let us not forget the true story behind this holiday. Let us honor Saint Valentine’s legacy by practicing unconditional love, compassion, and kindness towards all individuals, regardless of their relationship status.
By doing so, we can reclaim the true meaning of Valentine’s Day and make it a celebration of love in its purest form.
Valentine’s Day is more than just a celebration of romance—it’s an opportunity to spread kindness, compassion, and selfless love. Let’s honor the true essence of this day by showing love in its purest form.
.. story by Akpa Evelyn Ogbene
Evelyn Akpa is a talented voice over artist, model, actress, print and broadcast journalist with over 15 years’ experience spanning print, online and television.
💙 How are you celebrating love beyond romance this Valentine’s Day? Share your thoughts in the comments!
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