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Cupid

Why the Diaper?

By Staci Nappi, Mom Publisher/Editor, Riverhead Macaroni Kid February 2, 2025

 Understanding the Myth of Cupid and Psyche: A Lesson for Parents  


Dear Parents,


Exploring timeless tales that shed light on love and relationships proves beneficial while we handle their complexities. The Roman myth of Cupid and Psyche demonstrates love's complexity and the obstacles typically associated with it.


Cupid stands as the Roman god of love who parallels the Greek god Eros. Depictions show Cupid as a winged young man or cherub who uses his bow and arrows to ignite intense love and passion by targeting human hearts according to legend. Although he seems playful at first glance the story of Cupid demonstrates the intricate chaos present within relationships.


The story of Cupid and Psyche features Psyche who as a mortal woman draws the envy of Venus because of her unmatched beauty. Venus orders her son Cupid to make Psyche fall in love with the most repulsive being because she envies Psyche’s beauty. When Cupid first meets Psyche his heart becomes captivated by her beauty which leads him to fall deeply in love with her and he chooses to shield her from harm instead of obeying his mother’s orders.


Cupid struggles to maintain his commitment between love for Psyche and his filial duty because he meets her secretly at night but requires that she never look upon his face. Psyche becomes increasingly curious which results in her breaking Cupid’s trust by discreetly observing him during his sleep. The betrayal breaks Cupid's heart and he runs away which devastates Psyche.


Psyche resolves to win back love from Cupid by tackling multiple challenging tasks assigned by Venus who is furious. These trials including sorting an enormous heap of seeds in one day and harvesting golden fleece from dangerous sheep examine her strength and courage along with her dedication to Cupid. Divine beings and different creatures assist Psyche throughout her journey which shows how assistance and love are interconnected.


Psyche's steadfast resolve triumphs and she returns to Cupid's side. By a powerful gesture of love Zeus bestows immortality upon Psyche so she can live forever with Cupid. The perfect blend of the soul (Psyche) with love itself (Cupid) demonstrates how enduring trials can lead to harmonious connections.


The Cupid and Psyche story highlights love as an experience filled with tests that build trust and encourage personal development. The narrative teaches us that love needs dedication and endurance to succeed even after experiencing betrayal.


Let us teach our children about love and endurance while taking inspiration from this classic story. Promote transparent dialogue and mutual comprehension between partners which creates a secure environment where they can handle love's intricacies with assurance.