Valentine’s Day: Commemorating the reason it came to be |14 February 2020
Valentine’s Day, celebrated annually on February 14, is commonly associated with offerings of cards, chocolates and flowers to our loved ones; yet unknown to many, the day is believed by some to have gotten its name because of a great sacrifice that was made in the name of love.
The story goes that a priest, named Valentine, went against the rules of an emperor who had banned marriage since he felt that marriage made for bad soldiers.
St. Valentine, who felt that this was not fair, was said to have organised secret marriages and as a result was sentenced to death. While in jail, he fell in love with the jailer’s daughter and on the day that he was to be killed, February 14, he sent her a love letter which he signed From your Valentine.
It is in this light that the Seychelles NATION spoke to a few couples living in Seychelles to learn more about what they feel truly celebrates and cultivates love in their relationships.
Acceptance, appreciation & trust play major roles
“As a couple we have learnt that ‘acceptance’ plays a major role in maintaining a healthy and loving relationship. By acceptance, we do not mean just the partner. Like the saying goes… when you marry a man, you marry his entire family. Being more accepting of each others’ families and shortcomings has definitely made a difference.”
“The second aspect for us would be ‘appreciation’. My husband never misses an opportunity to appreciate what I have done and still continue to do for US. He always brings out the best in me and motivates me to be a better version of myself. I on the other hand, always push him to achieve his personal and professional goals, offer advice where needed and I am just there for him whenever he needs me.”
“Lastly, ‘Trust’ – knowing that you have a soul mate, a best friend, a companion for life whom you can trust no matter come what may, just sums it all up.”
Shared by Uma & Krish Venkat
Married for 16 years
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Compromise for happiness
“It’s all about ‘us’ rather than ‘I’ – it’s good to think as a couple rather than as individuals and to know when to give in to make compromises. In doing so, we can ensure that both people in the relationship are happy. Any decision we make should leave no room for selfishness.”
Shared by Jean-Paul & Charlotte
In a long-term relationship for 11 years
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We are a team
“From us we would say that as a couple we share each others’ dreams, back each other’s development and one has to be stronger when the other is feeling less so. We work with each other’s strengths and weaknesses – where Tina is very organised, I'm good at seeing abstract solutions. Therefore, after nearly 29 years of marriage, we are a Team. Two very important words however – Yes Dear…”.
Shared by Edwin & Tina Adrienne
Married for nearly 29 years
F.P.