2 minute read
The History of St. Valentine’s Day
by Dr. Cathy Coker
Teachers, we really need to be informed as to why we take time in class to celebrate certain days in the school year. Valentine’s Day is one of them. Valentine’s Day occurs every February 14 in the United States as well as all around the world, candy, flowers, and gifts are exchanged between loved ones, all in the name of St. Valentine. But who is this mysterious saint and where did these traditions come from?
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One legend contends that Valentine was a priest who served during the third century in Rome. When Emperor Claudius II decided that single men made better soldiers than those with wives and families, he outlawed marriage for young men. Valentine, realizing the injustice of the decree, defied Claudius and continued to perform marriages for young lovers in secret. When Valentine’s actions were discovered, Claudius ordered that he be put to death.
Some historians insist that it was Saint Valentine of Terni, a bishop, who was the true namesake of the holiday. He, too, was beheaded by Claudius II outside Rome. I don’t think I like Emperor Claudius right now. Though it is true to an extent the men would be distracted but they should have never been forbidden to marry if they wanted to.
Other stories suggest that Valentine may have been killed for attempting to help Christians escape harsh Roman prisons, where they were often beaten and tortured.
importantly a romantic figure. St. Valentine has become a popular saint around the world today.
Teach your students the history of why we celebrate Valentine’s Day and why it’s okay to say, “I love You,” without blushing. Thanks to St. Valentine this is one day that we can express our love for one another without judgement.
According to one legend, an imprisoned Valentine did send the first “valentine” greeting. While in prison he fell in love with a young girl, possibly his jailor’s daughter who visited him during his confinement.
Before his death, it is alleged that he wrote her a letter signed “From your Valentine,” an expression that is still in use today. Although the truth behind the Valentine legends is murky, The stories all emphasize his appeal as a sympathetic, heroic, and most
by Dr Cathy Coker
Name:____________________ Date:_______________
Life Stinks Book 5 The Timid Rabbit Series ®
By Dr. Cathy Coker
Paul the porcupine had so many special gifts within himself. Mother Earth had taught Rabbit that Paul was an animal that symbolizes strength, defense, curiosity, innocence, and helpfulness. She also told Rabbit not to be afraid of Paul’s quills because those quills are hollow and can be easily filled with air when faced with adversity and Rabbit was not that kind of a critter he was a true friend. After thinking about it he has never seen Paul blow up his quills before. Paul wanted others to look at him as their Knight. When his gills are inflated he can use them to save people or the animals if they are in danger.
1. What are some adjectives that the author uses to describe Paul the Porcupine?
2. Why does Timid Rabbit believe what Mother Earth says about Paul the Porcupine?
3. Can you describe Paul the Porcupine with at least 3 other words?
Life Stinks Book 5 The Timid Rabbit Series ®
By Dr. Cathy Coker
Word Scramble
Life Stinks Book 1
The Timid Rabbit Series ®
By Dr. Cathy Coker
