Cancelled Weekly Podcast | Season 3 Episode 2

The Origins of Valentine's Day: From Violent Roots to Enduring Love

While the exact ⁠origins of Valentine's Day⁠ are not entirely clear, the holiday's history is rooted in a Roman festival called Lupercalia, which celebrated fertility and the coming of spring. However, this celebration had a rather violent past. In the 6th century BC, men would sacrifice their animals and smear the blood on children, while women volunteered to be whipped, as it was believed to enhance their fertility. By the 3rd century BC, women were held forcibly naked and whipped.

The holiday later became associated with St. Valentine, a Christian priest who performed illegal marriages during a time when they were banned by the Roman Emperor Claudius II. Although St. Valentine was eventually sentenced to death, he became a symbol of love and devotion, and the holiday of Valentine's Day evolved into a celebration of love and affection between couples.

The Contrast Between Past and Present

Reflecting on the dark origins of Valentine's Day, one cannot help but notice the contrast between the violent past and the expression of love and devotion in modern times.

For example, fairy tales, which are often associated with love and romance, have their origins in dark and gruesome stories. Cinderella's stepsisters had their feet cut off in the original tale, and the nursery rhyme "Ring Around the Rosie" is believed to be about the Black Plague. These examples demonstrate how our modern interpretations of traditions have evolved over time.

The Complexity of Relationships: Strong Women and Weak Men

In today's society, relationships between strong women and weak men are often a topic of discussion. The definition of strength and weakness can vary, and it is essential to recognize that individuals have different qualities and ways of expressing themselves.

Strong women can be intimidating to weak men because they challenge traditional gender roles and expectations. However, it is crucial to understand that men and women do not compete with each other but rather complete each other. A healthy relationship should allow both partners to grow and flourish.

Society's perception of strength and weakness has evolved over time. It is now more widely recognized that strength should not be equated with aggressiveness or domination but rather with authenticity, emotional intelligence, and vulnerability. Both men and women should feel comfortable expressing their emotions and supporting each other in a relationship.

The Importance of Authenticity

Authenticity is a powerful aspect of human connection. When individuals are authentic, they speak their truth and genuinely believe in what they say. Research has shown that authenticity generates a frequency that is 4,000 times more powerful than love.

The Controversy of Physical Discipline

The topic of physical discipline, particularly in the context of raising children, is widely debated. Some argue that physical discipline, such as spanking, can be an effective way to teach children respect and discipline. Others, however, believe that physical discipline can have long-lasting negative effects on a child's emotional well-being.

Kevin Gates, a controversial figure, has publicly expressed his belief in physical discipline as a means of teaching respect to his children.

Many experts argue that positive reinforcement, open communication, setting clear boundaries, and teaching empathy are more effective ways to instill discipline and foster healthy relationships with children.

Conclusion: Embracing Authenticity and Nurturing Healthy Relationships

In the end, the key to navigating the complexities of relationships, whether between strong women and weak men or in the context of raising children, lies in embracing authenticity and nurturing healthy connections.

As we celebrate Valentine's Day, let us remember the power of authenticity and the importance of cultivating strong, supportive partnerships that allow both individuals to thrive.