‘With or without the razzle-dazzle of its seductive cover, I hope you can see that I am simply a reflection of all your love and beauty.’
I have never really loved Valentine’s Day. So the production and commercialization of Valentine’s classics from Hallmark and FTD florist don’t interest me. However, if you want to talk about chocolates from See’s Candy, I have a moment to sit and chat with you.
I took a second to dive into the origins of Valentine’s Day, and I don’t know how I feel about the celebration. However, the following paragraph was taken directly from the interwebs:
“The ancient Romans may also be responsible for the name of our modern-day of love. Emperor Claudius II executed two men — who were both named Valentine — on Feb. 14 of different years in the third century. Their martyrdom was honored by the Catholic Church with the celebration of St. Valentine’s Day.”
So we have Christian saints and martyrs associated with romantic love for supposedly ‘secretly marrying young Christian couples’ so that the men could avoid military service. But, also celebrate the birth of spring when flowers blossom and birds mate. It’s altogether too much for me.
I grew up in a Catholic / Christian household, where I attended services and after-school specials at both churches on many occasions – with all of that, it still left me questioning its history, beliefs, and symbols. So when it came time for my confirmation at around age 11, I told my parents I would do it if I didn’t have to attend any of the services anymore. They said, “fine.” I did not believe the stories I was being taught – and figured a way out.
Little did I know then that I was learning to listen to my heart and how to love myself.
Valentine’s day is considered a celebration of fertility and love. But the violence that happened in the 3rd century sure doesn’t sound like the gift of a dozen roses to me.
I’ve had many true loves in my life, all unique and special in their way. Of course, some lasted longer than others, but all were part of my growth.
One of the most important things I took away from those relationships was how to give and receive love. To be nurtured and loved by others is a natural thing. So, learning to surrender part of yourself – so that you can be the recipient of someone’s respect and kindness is beautiful.
So today, let’s all take a moment to think about what we love about ourselves. We all possess many unique qualities. And, if you are single, let’s treat ourselves to a favorite meal, sit in the sun and let it warm our faces, or take a moment to breathe. But most importantly, remember always to share love, especially when you feel it bubbling up from your heart.
I can hardly express how much I honestly care about our community. The love and admiration I receive have always been taken to heart, much deeper than the outside façade of all the glamour and style. So, with or without the razzle-dazzle of its seductive cover, I hope you can see that I am simply a reflection of all your love and beauty.
Loads of Love,
Juanita
Feature image: Courtesy of Matthew Cox
Juanita MORE! is a denizen of the limelight. For almost three decades, the laudable hostess has blitzed San Francisco with high glamour, drag irreverence, and danceable beats that have illuminated the entire city. MORE! continues to be a heaping dollop of generosity and a sprinkle of nerve. She inspires those around her to make positive differences in their lives and communities — and doing it all with timeless elegance and an innovative spirit. Most recently, after her reign, Miss MORE! holds the title of Absolute Empress 56 of the Imperial Council of San Francisco –– one of the oldest non-profit organizations globally.
To date, MORE! has helped raise over 1 million dollars for local charities — among them GBLT Historical Society & Archives, Our Trans Youth, Q Foundation, Queer Lifespace, Transgender Law Center, and more. In addition, MORE! tirelessly fundraises for organizations in San Francisco that are adamant about helping communities in the seven-by-seven thrive, all while shining light and offering support to those who’ve been overlooked for far too long.
MORE! embodies what it means to be a conduit of connection. MORE!’ brings the people together to fundraise, celebrate community, and demand social change around San Francisco and elsewhere. Her culinary expressions are an extension of what mothers have been doing in their kitchens for generations — which, simply states, is sharing “loads of love.”