Across the Nation, traditions abound. From lighting of the National holiday tree to ‘living green’ displayed in residential homes, holiday traditions occur.
At one time, the Science Museum of Virginia host a display of ‘Trees from Around the World’. Countries were represented by trees decorated with traditional holiday decorations; and in the middle, a blended display of global holiday decorations represented diverse American traditions.
In many countries it is believed the use of evergreen plants kept away witches, ghosts, evil spirits, and illness. The country of Germany is credited with starting the use of trees as a Christmas tradition. Martin Luther, the 16th-century Protestant reformer, added the use of lighted candles as decorations. And, when the song "The Twelve Days of Christmas" was set to music, it helped young Catholics learn the tenets of their faith. The "true love" mentioned in the song doesn't refer to an earthly suitor, it refers to God Himself. The "me" who receives the presents refers to every baptized person. The partridge in a pear tree is Jesus Christ, the Son of God. And, in its 21st century use, December 25, Christmas Day ushers in twelve days of celebration, ending only on January 6 with the feast of the Epiphany.
So, similar to most American families, my family celebrates blended diverse traditions. In fact, my book - Eco-legacy, a millennium woman’s heritage highlights these traditions. For our family, a blend of Quaker heritage with other Christian based faiths along with non-faith activities influence holiday celebrations. For examples, I recall memories of walking with my father the fields of my grandparent’s farm to harvest a ‘perfect’ evergreen Christmas tree; and because my brother and I received fruits and nuts as holiday treats, shoe boxes were placed on the hearth instead of hanging stockings on the mantel.
Nevertheless, due to the fact present-day family members have allergies, we use artificial tree-like greens as decorations. Does change matter? Not really! My family is reminded of their heritage by a tray of holiday mugs which sit on the kitchen counter.
A ‘vase of multi-century collected silver spoons’ provides modern-day ‘coffee stirrers’. The tray, acquired by my Mother when she attended ‘home entertainment’ courses offered by our County’s Extension Office, hosts mugs designed to represent the ’12 days of Christmas’ holiday events.
My family starts their celebration on Christmas day ending on January 6. We watch holiday theme movies, play the song Jingle Bells when we open gifts and have Krispy Kreme doughnuts on Christmas morning. In other words, celebrate the season with a blend of old and new traditions. Because we are influenced by a country of Germany heritage, the tree remains softly lighted during the extended winter season to offset bleak wintry days.
So, regardless of cultural diversity, won't you join in a celebration of holiday season American style. Celebrate traditions old and new, representative of our Nation’s blended diversity. For additional eco tips and strategies, visit web site The Wright Scoop.
In many countries it is believed the use of evergreen plants kept away witches, ghosts, evil spirits, and illness. The country of Germany is credited with starting the use of trees as a Christmas tradition. Martin Luther, the 16th-century Protestant reformer, added the use of lighted candles as decorations. And, when the song "The Twelve Days of Christmas" was set to music, it helped young Catholics learn the tenets of their faith. The "true love" mentioned in the song doesn't refer to an earthly suitor, it refers to God Himself. The "me" who receives the presents refers to every baptized person. The partridge in a pear tree is Jesus Christ, the Son of God. And, in its 21st century use, December 25, Christmas Day ushers in twelve days of celebration, ending only on January 6 with the feast of the Epiphany.
So, similar to most American families, my family celebrates blended diverse traditions. In fact, my book - Eco-legacy, a millennium woman’s heritage highlights these traditions. For our family, a blend of Quaker heritage with other Christian based faiths along with non-faith activities influence holiday celebrations. For examples, I recall memories of walking with my father the fields of my grandparent’s farm to harvest a ‘perfect’ evergreen Christmas tree; and because my brother and I received fruits and nuts as holiday treats, shoe boxes were placed on the hearth instead of hanging stockings on the mantel.
Nevertheless, due to the fact present-day family members have allergies, we use artificial tree-like greens as decorations. Does change matter? Not really! My family is reminded of their heritage by a tray of holiday mugs which sit on the kitchen counter.
Symbols of Holiday, generational spoons, entertainment try and 12 days of Christmas theme mugs.
A ‘vase of multi-century collected silver spoons’ provides modern-day ‘coffee stirrers’. The tray, acquired by my Mother when she attended ‘home entertainment’ courses offered by our County’s Extension Office, hosts mugs designed to represent the ’12 days of Christmas’ holiday events.
My family starts their celebration on Christmas day ending on January 6. We watch holiday theme movies, play the song Jingle Bells when we open gifts and have Krispy Kreme doughnuts on Christmas morning. In other words, celebrate the season with a blend of old and new traditions. Because we are influenced by a country of Germany heritage, the tree remains softly lighted during the extended winter season to offset bleak wintry days.
So, regardless of cultural diversity, won't you join in a celebration of holiday season American style. Celebrate traditions old and new, representative of our Nation’s blended diversity. For additional eco tips and strategies, visit web site The Wright Scoop.
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