A few weeks to consider this...
Flashes of
childhod Christmases. . . .Stirring the neighbourhood pudding mix to be boiled
in the copper during war years. Carolling with snowflakes on my noae. Waking in
freezing early hours to feel the Santa pillowcase on my toes - usually containing an orange but once...oh yes once I had my first pomegranate. Festive dinner
and then dozing with a full tummy at the knees of grandparents listening to the
Queen’s speech in front of a blazing fire.The full traditional British scene.
These festivities centred round the birth of Jesus are directly descended from the Roman Saturnalia, a long line of archaic earth festivals.Comparative mythology shows many other peoples of the ancient past commemorated birth days of world saviours at the winter solstice.
This helps me
see the season as a time of special energy outpouring. Here in the southern
hemisphere it is an opportunity to deepen the inner richness of the heart and
to honour as well as celebrate the lifestream of the earth and humanity. This
reminds me of my Pagan roots and the green trees festooned with representations
of fish, birds and animals crucial to the survival of early people.
Encouragingly
large numbers of people are rebelling against commercial pressures. World focus
has turned to the relief of starving and displaced millions, extended families to sharing and communities
to giving needy service. So despite all the bad and negative forces we hear of,
wonderful, good, noble things are happening.
For me the
season is a reminder to avoid town, to spend a loving yet simple time with family
and friends, to write overseas, to hug more babies, frail and old folk, and to
make special time for inner reflection and mediation on global serenity.
Incidentally the
Saturnalia was time to pay all debts and bury all emnity. That should keep us all busy before Christmas.
Blessings to you all Hzl.
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