Love is in the air?

The origins of Valentine’s Day dates back as far at the 5th Century with the Romans around a holiday called Lupercalia. It also has ties with Julius Caesar; the Ides of March. Critics believed that Shakespeare "joined together the night of the Lupercalia and the eve of the assassination". The Lupercalia, Feb 13-15th  is referred to now as Valentine’s Day; a month in Roman times to end the year, get rid of the old and start again in the New Year (March). The Lupercalia had two stages; the first involving sacrifice, male nudity and a feast followed by the naked men running around and hitting the women. The hitting of these women could be seen as a symbolic form of penetration, therefore suggesting this was a festival of fertility. The connection that is therefore suggested between this Roman festival and Valentine’s Day is to do with nudity, fun, fertility and erotica (http://ancienthistory.about.com/od/socialcustomsdailylife/a/010908Lupercal_4.htm).

Today, Valentine’s Day is seen as day of love; showing appreciation and showering each other with gifts. Some people see it as a commercial hype, a day where lots of money is spent in order to fulfill what is expected of them from society. Others however see it as a day that is special- it may be a day where society dictates you have to be romantic, but it is a day you know that your man/ woman will show you some appreciation. Not all of us are lucky enough to be with someone that is romantic, who doesn't need a specific day to show you how they feel. For those of you that have that, I envy you.

This Valentines I will be spending alone- but you know what, its ok! I decided not to hate on Valentine’s Day, because I am all mushy and I do like what it represents. I am going to have a great supper, then stuff my face with popcorn and chocolate and put on a good movie or series. No, it won’t be the Vow or the Notebook because I have no intention of crying and feeling sorry for myself.

A few months ago there was a prospect of something, there was a feeling of excitement that I might be spending my valentines with someone special, but it didn’t pan out how I wanted or had hoped. It obviously wasn't meant to happen, and I am ok with that. Being single sucks at times, but it is certainly not the end of the world. I have so many other important things I need to worry about! I am envious of all those people today, everyday really who get to be with the person they love, but at the same time I am happy for them. My turn will come eventually (unless I’m totally horrific and repel the male species!!).

Happy Valentine's to everyone out there.

xox