… Couples, families, and businesses enjoy the day without masks, travel, COVID-19 restrictions
BY DELISA THWALA
MBABANE– Finally, Valentine’s Day is here. The last and the most important day of Valentine’s week.
Today marks the sacrifice and message of Saint Valentine to spread and honour love in society. This day to show love and gratitude towards partners has become a significant cultural, religious, and commercial celebration of romance and love in many regions of the world.
For the Kingdom of Eswatini and other countries globally it is the first Valentine’s without masks and any COVID-19 restrictions. As one would have it Mbabane town was painted red by members of the public and the outlets that hype and commercialize the day.
People seen walking around town were clad in something red or white, and shops blasted music while promoting their products and services.
Commercial and franchise shops like Pep stores, Indian outlets, and Shoprite had specials like buying a rose and getting another for free.
A number of interviewed people mentioned that in the past COVID-19 had robbed them the chance of celebrating the day but today it seemed different and they were keen on celebrating it.
“ I cannot believe the year has moved so fast, today I have a lot of things planned for my family especially my children because in the past we were not able to due to lockdowns,” said Nolwazi Nkambule.
Mmeli Msibi said although he had not much planned because he was single, he still hoped to celebrate his mother and siblings.
“Today’s energy is different man; we can book in hotels, order, and sit in restaurants to think we were not able to do this a year ago makes today feel like a blessing,” he said.
Although during the compilation of this report, the malls were not at all busy but they still had décor stalls up and ready to service lovers.
A couple found in town said they were aware of the day but had other things to do; they further mentioned that they had dinner plans for later in the evening.
“We have been married for over 10 years and sometimes we forget this day but thanks to my wife this year was not the case. We have a table reserved at Hilton hotel later today just to remind each other why we fell in love,” said the couple.
February, the month of love is on the calendar, the sky seems pink because of all the grand gestures in a row by the people in love.
While the main Valentine’s Day is celebrated on February 14, the additional occasions start from February 7 and go on till today (February 14).
The most well-known Valentine’s Day story is that of Saint Valentine of Rome. It is believed that he was put in prison for officiating at a wedding for soldiers who were not allowed to wed.
He gave these couples flowers from his garden, which is probably why flowers are so significant on this day.
As a result of the emperor’s displeasure, he was executed on February 14, 269 AD. Since then, Valentine’s Day has come to symbolise love and romance as well as the anniversary of Saint Valentine’s passing.
However, the holiday is not restricted to just one day but is observed for the entire week. Valentine’s week is a time for joy and love, from hugs and kisses to promises.
