"In the US it is customary for children to exchange...tiny minimal Valentine greetings in tiny envelopes, especially in school." Devon
The custom endures to this day, and I like that the children learn to think of each other. (It is a celebration that seems to be considered non-offensive to cultural and religious differences.) The only thing I didn't like, is that some children were allowed to give to favorites, so some were saddened that day. I hated noticing some children with half filled boxes, while most were stuffed. My mother (and some teachers) insisted that every child be gifted with one. Bless their hearts that they taught children, what didn't seem to come to all of them naturally. The children's participation often reminded me a bit of May Day celebrations, which where I grew up, was making little origami type cupped baskets, filling with candy, taking to doors and ringing the bell, and running madly so they wouldn't know who gifted them. LOL A good lesson in unconditional giving. I think marketing has influenced the US celebration of Valentines Day into thinking one must give flowers (esp. roses), chocolates (esp. fancy heart shaped boxes), and jewelry (esp. diamonds). Originally, it was a cupid/love celebration of the romantic sort, or at least for the last 1500 years. Best, Susan Reishus To unsubscribe send email to [email protected] containing the line: unsubscribe lace-chat [email protected]. For help, write to [email protected]. Photo site: http://community.webshots.com/user/arachne2003
