Montagu: Can’t I Send Flowers to My Friends on Valentine’s Day?

Valentine’s Day is traditionally a day to celebrate romantic love, but in recent years, there has been a growing movement to expand the celebration to include all kinds of love—including friendships. This shift has sparked a debate: Can you send flowers to your friends on Valentine’s Day? The answer, according to the philosopher and writer Elizabeth Montagu, is a resounding yes.

Who Was Elizabeth Montagu?

Elizabeth Montagu was an 18th-century English writer, literary patron, and social reformer. She was a prominent figure in the Bluestocking Society, a group of intellectual women who advocated for education and the arts. Montagu was known for her progressive views on love, friendship, and social relationships, making her an ideal advocate for the idea that Valentine’s Day can be about more than just romantic love.

The Evolution of Valentine’s Day

Valentine’s Day has evolved significantly since its origins in ancient Rome. Originally a pagan festival known as Lupercalia, it was later Christianized and associated with Saint Valentine. Over time, the holiday became associated with romantic love, particularly in the Victorian era when the exchange of Valentine’s cards and gifts became popular. However, the modern interpretation of Valentine’s Day is not as rigidly defined by romantic love as it once was.

Why Send Flowers to Friends?

Flowers have long been a symbol of love and affection, but they don’t have to be reserved solely for romantic partners. Friends play a crucial role in our lives, offering support, companionship, and love. Sending flowers to a friend on Valentine’s Day is a beautiful way to express appreciation and acknowledge the importance of your friendship. It’s a gesture that can brighten their day and remind them of the special bond you share.

Challenging Traditional Norms

One of the reasons people hesitate to send flowers to friends on Valentine’s Day is the fear of breaking traditional norms. However, Montagu’s philosophy encourages us to challenge these norms and embrace a more inclusive view of love. Love is not a finite resource; it can be expressed in many forms and to many people. By sending flowers to a friend, you are not diminishing the significance of romantic love; you are simply broadening the scope of what Valentine’s Day can represent.

Practical Tips for Sending Flowers to Friends

If you’re considering sending flowers to a friend on Valentine’s Day, here are some practical tips to ensure your gesture is well-received:

• Choose the Right Flowers: Consider your friend’s preferences. Some people may prefer bright, cheerful flowers like sunflowers or daisies, while others might appreciate more elegant blooms like roses or lilies.
• Include a Thoughtful Note: A handwritten note can make the gesture even more meaningful. Express your appreciation for your friend and explain why you chose to send them flowers on Valentine’s Day.
• Be Mindful of Timing: If you’re sending flowers to a friend who is in a romantic relationship, it’s important to be mindful of their partner’s feelings. Ensure that your gesture is seen as a celebration of friendship, not a romantic advance.
• Consider Group Flowers: If you’re part of a group of friends, consider sending a bouquet to all of you. This can be a fun way to celebrate your collective friendship and make the gesture even more inclusive.

Conclusion

Valentine’s Day is a day to celebrate love in all its forms, and friendship is a vital part of that. Elizabeth Montagu’s progressive views on love and relationships encourage us to embrace a more inclusive interpretation of Valentine’s Day. By sending flowers to a friend, you are not only expressing your appreciation for them but also challenging traditional norms and broadening the scope of what Valentine’s Day can represent. So, go ahead—send those flowers to your friends and celebrate the love you share!

Questions and Answers

1. Who was Elizabeth Montagu?

Elizabeth Montagu was an 18th-century English writer, literary patron, and social reformer. She was a prominent figure in the Bluestocking Society and advocated for education and the arts.

2. Why is it significant to send flowers to friends on Valentine’s Day?

Sending flowers to friends on Valentine’s Day is significant because it acknowledges the importance of friendship and broadens the scope of what Valentine’s Day can represent. It’s a way to express appreciation and love for your friends.

3. How can you ensure your gesture of sending flowers to a friend is well-received?

To ensure your gesture is well-received, choose the right flowers, include a thoughtful note, be mindful of timing, and consider sending group flowers if you’re part of a group of friends.

4. What does Elizabeth Montagu’s philosophy encourage us to do regarding Valentine’s Day?

Elizabeth Montagu’s philosophy encourages us to challenge traditional norms and embrace a more inclusive view of love. She advocates for broadening the scope of Valentine’s Day to include all kinds of love, including friendships.

Summary

Valentine’s Day is traditionally associated with romantic love, but Elizabeth Montagu’s progressive views on love and relationships encourage us to expand our interpretation of the holiday to include all kinds of love, including friendships. Sending flowers to a friend on Valentine’s Day is a beautiful way to express appreciation and acknowledge the importance of your friendship. By challenging traditional norms and embracing a more inclusive view of love, we can celebrate Valentine’s Day in a way that honors all the meaningful relationships in our lives.