Happy Valentine's Day!
So, is Valentine's Day a western tradition? The name Valentine certainly is. It started as a Christian celebration in Europe, named after Saint Valentine. In Chinese tradition, the story of the Cowherd 牛郎 and the Princess 织女 talks of romantic love. Chinese Valentine's Day is on the 7th Day of the 7th Lunar Month 七夕. In China, they celebrate on both 14 February and the 7th Day of the 7th Lunar Month. More love to go around!
Singapore blogger Mr Brown posted a funny Valentine's Day picture taken of Weibo, China's version of Google, Facebook, Twitter, all rolled into one. Here's the story:
Man: Actually, there's nothing special or unique about Valentine's Day. Valentine's Day is similar to 清明节 (Tomb Sweeping Day, Chinese version of All Saints Day). You either give food or flowers.
The last shot in that picture is that of a horrified woman. And rightly so! Chinese offer food and flowers to their dead ancestors as a mark of respect, much like laying flowers at someone's tomb. Now which woman would appreciate a man with this kind of attitude?!
In India, hard-line Hindus protested against celebrating Valentine's Day in India. On the news, there were school girls holding posters saying, "Marriage is an institution". Well, rightly so. But, aren't married couples supposed to be in love with each other? Why stop them from expressing their love for each other? The problem lies with the unmarried, not the married, couples.
My Pakistani friend made a realistic comment about Valentine's Day: "Most happy hearts at Valentine are the shop keepers." Well said indeed!
Whether you celebrate or not, everyone around the world always appreciates some expression of love. So, spread a little love today! It's goes across cultures.
Happy Valentine's Day from Fun Language Tools!
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