1
Crimson past
Like many traditions, it took roots, centuries in the past misconstrued and swayed according to how the generation sees it fit the time. There are many texts that suggest that this tradition refers to the cleansing ritual after Zeus makes his illicit conquests. The shades of red was darker then than that it is today.
As a child, I fondly remember reading books saying Valentines was named after St. Valentine a priest in the time of the Roman Empire, who may have died as a martyr on February 14th. The church however removed many saints that had uncertain origins, one of which, was in fact St. Valentine.
2
World spends day
Americans spend two billion dollars on flowers for Valentines Day. Spends another $4.3 billion for jewelry and $1.7B on chocolates. Last 2016 the US clocked at 19.7 billion dollars for Valentines Day. Giving gifts is an economic powerhouse.
In the Philippines, flowers shot up in prices from P200 to P1, 500 a dozen as the day approached. Many flower businesses consider Valentines Day as their Christmas holiday.
This is not to make people feel bad about spending for spouses and family. If it's any consolation the US budget for social welfare is in the trillions in nominal terms.
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Take back Valentines Day
SpiritualValentines Day today is a very commercial affair. This short narrative tries alternatives in a Christian perspective how to gain a better purpose for this special hearts day.
