FEBRUARY – perceived as the “month of Love”

While February is the second month in the Julian and Gregorian calendars, it was originally the very last month added to the Roman calendar. Originally, the calendar was 10 months because winter was considered a dormant, month-less period. January and February were added by the Roman king Numa Pompilius to better align the calendar with the lunar year, and February was moved to its place as the second month.
February comes from the Latin word “februa” – which means “to cleanse.” It was named after “Februalia”, the Roman festival of purification, which was a month-long festival of cleansing and atonement that took place this time of year. The month has 28 days in common years and 29 in leap years, with the 29th day being called the leap day.

But why February has been so heavily associated with love almost throughout the entire world, and why so many people at this time of the year tune into love and connectivity?

Apparently, it is presumed that the association with love might’ve been originated from the popular belief that birds paired in mid-February during middle ages, and since then, by extrapolation, humanity adopted the concept.

Additionally, February has earned a steady reputation as the month of love, primarily due to the widespread celebration of Valentine’s Day on February 14th.
This day is dedicated to expressing affection and appreciation for loved ones through cards, gifts, and romantic gestures.

However, the roots of Valentine’s Day trace back to ancient Roman and Christian traditions. One theory suggests that Valentine’s Day is linked to the Roman festival of “Lupercalia”, celebrated in mid-February to honor fertility and the coming of spring. Over time, this pagan celebration merged with Christian traditions, eventually evolving into the Valentine’s Day we know today. 
The association of February with love and romance has since become deeply ingrained in cultures around the world. It is a time when hearts beat a little faster, and the air is filled with the sweet scent of romance. As we turn the page on the calendar and step into this enchanting month, there’s an undeniable sense of anticipation and excitement that permeates the atmosphere. February is also a time to reflect and emphasize love in our lives, and it can be a month for self-love and self-care, fostering relationships with family and friends, and loving others.

I’m sure that all of you know by now that each February, Romanians celebrate LOVE twice….on VALENTINE’S DAY (which is on February 14’25, this being the Western celebration of Love), and on “DRAGOBETE DAY” (which is on February 24’25…this being the ancient celebration of Love in Romania).

And as I’ve said few times by now….when we talk about LOVE, I guess the more the merrier…anyhow, I’m wishing you all a nice February, full of Love & Joy!

“Loving is not just looking at each other, it’s looking in the same direction.” (Antoine de Saint-Exupéry)