It is in my humble opinion that some of the most romantic stories that I have ever heard, are old one’s. Old enough that the people involved have gone forward, and left only the stories themselves as representation.
“ah, things remembered.”
There is an inherent romance in the history of things, for so many different reasons. In the simple ways that they evolve, the ways that they improve, or if they do not. There is also an enormous power there.
The difference is that history as opposed to memory is not singular, but inevitably still some how so personal.
Consider this:
In Rome, during the third century, it is rumored that a priest serving under the emperor Claudius II went rogue, making himself a legend. His name was Valentine, and after a law was passed banning marriage in an effort to strengthen the troops frame of mind, Valentine continued to preform marriages in secret. Once discovered, the priest was sentenced to death and spent his last days publicly worshipped by all the young couples that he had helped.
There is another story about an imprisoned man named Valentine, (perhaps the same man?) that fell madly in love with the daughter of his jailer. The night before his death he passed her a letter,
the words “from your Valentine” written across the top of the page.
When you have known some one long enough, their mannerisms become a small comfort in the day. Their reactions soak into your own ability to learn and grow, and can give you strength to make better choices for yourself. That awareness of someone else, when really considered, is an amazing side effect. It is the construction of memories, and in the long run
History.
So it is true that this holiday can have a flinch inspiring effect. It can so easily become about the time that dinner is ready, or how much you were able to spend, and how you will be interpreted?
There is no time for all that.
Loving is so much simpler than we realize.
Easier than mac and cheese or changing the clock on your car stereo, and forget about riding a bike…
Our capacity to celebrate is endless, so go on in celebrating each other. As usual with things of this nature, (life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness) it is your participation that is paramount.
Regan, your last two posts are beautiful. I hang on your every word and am always eager for your next thoughtful, inspiring post. Your words and images make a powerful combination. I can’t wait to see what you do next and to get my hands on a copy of ‘Love Letters’ once it’s published. You’re amazing! *hugs*
You continue to amaze me with your writing and the way your thoughts flow in words that most of us would not think to use or if we did – we would feel “self-conscience” in the using of them. In some of your thoughts I hear your Mother – those long ago writings that you read in January….and yet your have such a cleaver and unique style….so….yes, romantic, but realistic too.
I wish we could talk every day…..I know SHE is reads every word…and I know how proud she is…