The story of Valentine's Day begins in the third century with an oppressive Roman emperor the emperor was Claudius II. The Christian was Valentines. Claudius had ordered all Romans to worship twelve gods, and had made it a crime punishable by death to associate with Christians. But Valentines was dedicated to the ideals of Christ; not even the threat of death could keep him from practicing his beliefs. He was arrested and imprisoned. During the last weeks of Valentines's life a remarkable thing happened. Seeing that he was a man of learning, the jailer asked whether his daughter, Julia, might be brought to Valentines for lessons. She had been blind since birth. Julia was a pretty young girl with a quick mind. Valentines read stories of Rome's history to her. He described the world of nature to her. He taught her arithmetic and told her about God. She saw the world through his eyes, trusted his wisdom, and found comfort in his quiet strength. so much to see everything you've told me about!"On the eve of his death Valentines wrote a last note to Julia, urging her to stay close to God. He signed it, "From your Valentine." His sentence was carried out the next day, February 14, 270 A.D., near a gate that was later named Porta Valentini in his memory. He was buried at what is now the Church of Praxedes in Rome. It is said that Julia planted a pink-blossomed almond tree near his grave. Today, the almond tree remains a symbol of abiding love and friendship.On each February 14, Saint Valentine's Day, messages of affection, love, and devotion are exchanged around the world.
Nessun commento:
Posta un commento