The history of Christmas, as we know it today, is interesting and incorporates many traditions that have been celebrated throughout the ages. Wikipedia has a decent, if brief, description of some of the traditions that have inspired what we know, but here is an even briefer description...
Saturnalia celebrations in Rome lasted several days, involving gift exchanges, servants being granted greater freedom when dealing with "masters"; they were allowed to speak freely and some "masters" even exchanged places with their servants for the dinner. For the week between December 17th and 23rd, much revelry was to be had including (but certainly not limited to) gambling, drunkenness and public nudity (I think we have all attended some Christmas parties that partook in that behaviour!)
Pagan celebrations occurred around the same time of the year to mark winter solstice and the returning of the light. These included sacrifices around Thor's oak, kissing under the mistletoe, Germanic celebrations, known as 'yule' included the burning of logs and feasting. Most celebrations were held from about mid-December to the beginning of January.
Does any of this sound familiar?
So 'round about the 4th century, when the Catholic faith was looking to convert the masses, the church needed to find a way to turn the heretical mind to something other than the traditions of the past; they decided that the best way to do this was to incorporate the practices of other "faiths" so that they would have something to identify with. How very progressive and inclusive of them, no? I am kind of wishing they left in the public nudity...that would have been fun, but chilly, in these northern climes. The Christian adaptation of these early celebrations have since morphed into what we now celebrate today - well, most of us anyways.
Jump forward to current day, and what we now have is a very secular celebration that seems to be wholly dedicated to commercial exploits, excessive spending, and (sometimes) trying to out-do your neighbour. Ok, this may be a little reminiscent of Saturnalia...but really, walking around in togas carrying cups of wine sounds way more fun! The season has become restrictively politically correct, and exclusionary; so much so that we can't even wish someone a "Merry Christmas" without fear of reprisals. Where is the spirit of love your fellow man? Where is the idea that we are all equal? Why can't we just wish someone a Merry Christmas, or whatever celebration participated in, and have it be accepted in the spirit it was given?
What are the Christmas traditions or beliefs that you celebrate? Do you do your best to be kind to your fellow man? Are you more forgiving of minor transgressions? Do you participate in the giving of gifts? How about getting together with family and friends to gather around the table and feast on traditional meals?
BUT...what if we did it all year long instead of just during those three or four weeks, when it is expected?
What if we took all the energy and time that we cram into the few weeks in December and spread it all throughout the year? What if we decided to spend our time with friends and loved ones all year long? What if we gave gifts when we wanted to, when least expected, to show our love and appreciation to those we care about?
If we were to do this, there would be far less stress...fewer demands on our time and wallets, and less stress related to ensuring we "hit up" everyone on our list. We could have more time spent just enjoying each other's company. Heck, let's all dress up in togas to drink and eat in excess...just because!!
Wouldn't it be wonderful to feel all those wonderful feelings that are associated with Christmas all year long?
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