Today's celebration of Valentine's Day grew out of a tradition that began many years ago in ancient Rome. A Roman feast of Lupercalia was celebrated on February 15. This ancient festival involved the celebration of fertility and honored two Roman gods, Juno and Pan. One of the conventions of this occasion called for young maidens to write love messages. The messages were placed in a large urn and then drawn out by unmarried men who courted the fair maidens whose messages they had chosen.

Valentine’s Day was called Bird’s Wedding Day long ago. It was believed that birds selected their mates and began to breed on February 14, the second week of the second month.

In ancient Rome there lived a man named Valentine. He was a kind-hearted physician who practiced medicine out of a small room in his home. One might even describe him as "a gastronomical physician" because of his purported love of food and cookery. "Dr." Valentine always made a special effort to offer his patients medicines that tasted delicious. He would take care to mix bitter tasting medicines with wine, milk or honey to make them more palatable for the sick and injured. He cleansed wounds with wine vinegar and would use freshly ground herbs and roots to relieve pain. (The World Square advises you to consult a physician if you are ill and need medical attention. Relying on ancient Roman medical procedures and treatment may not be prudent.

Religion was also a significant part of Valentine's life and although Christianity was not popular at that time in history (some were persecuted for their beliefs) he became a Christian priest and would lead others in prayer. Often he would pray for the health of his patients. One day a jailer for the Emperor of Rome knocked at Valentine's door clutching his blind daughter in his arms. He had learned of Valentine's medical and spiritual healing abilities and appealed to Valentine to treat his daughter's blindness. Valentine knew that her condition would be difficult to treat but he gave the man his word he would do his best. The little girl was examined, given an ointment for her eyes and a series of re-visits were scheduled.

Several weeks passed and the girl's sight was not restored. Yet the man and his daughter never wavered in their faith and returned each week for their visits to "Dr." Valentine. Then one day, Valentine received a visit from Roman soldiers who arrested him, destroyed his medicines and admonished him for his religious views. When the little girl's father learned of Valentine's arrest, he wanted to intervene but there was nothing he could do. Valentine understood. Knowing his execution was imminent, Valentine asked the jailer for a paper, pen and ink. He quickly jotted a farewell note and handed it to the jailer to give to his blind daughter. Valentine was executed later that day, on February 14, 270 (AD) by the order of Emperor Claudius II Gothicus.

When the jailer went home, he was greeted by his little girl. The little girl opened the note and discovered a yellow crocus inside. The message said, "From your valentine." As the little girl looked down upon the crocus that spilled into her palm she saw brilliant colors for the first time in her life! The girl's eyesight was restored!! A miracle.

In 496 Pope Gelasius I named February 14 as Saint Valentine's Day. The feast was dropped from the present day liturgical calendar in 1969.

In modern times, we show our love and affection on Valentine's Day by sending cards, flowers and special messages to our sweethearts. Crocuses, the flower of Saint Valentine, herald the arrival of spring by gracing our gardens and homes with their beautiful color. Valentine's Day has proven to be an enchanting time throughout history. This February 14th celebrate in the traditional way. Present your lover with a beautiful crocus. Or do something truly romantic, surprise him (or her) with a pair of lovebirds!

Provided by Lori Godin, LMFT (408) 231-1508.  

 Valentine-and-cupid background courtesy of :

http://www.spaceports.com/~kind2u/holidays/valentine/love.html

Jan's site has some great valentine (and other) art.  Check it out!