Place: Mums House
Poison: Long Black
Favourite Things: Writing Granma’s Christmas Letter
Whilst doing research for Granma’s Christmas letter, she sends out to all her friends, I found this short history of where Christmas actually came from.
For those interested:
The middle of winter has long been a time of celebration around the world. Centuries before the arrival of Jesus, early Europeans celebrated light and birth in the darkest days of winter. Many peoples rejoiced during the winter solstice, when the worst of the winter was behind them and they could look forward to longer days and extended hours of sunlight.
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In Scandinavia, the Norse celebrated Yule from December 21, the winter solstice, through January. In recognition of the return of the sun, fathers and sons would bring home large logs, which they would set on fire. The people would feast until the log burned out, which could take as many as 12 days. The Norse believed that each spark from the fire represented a new pig or calf that would be born during the coming year.
The end of December was a perfect time for celebration in most areas of Europe. At that time of year, most cattle were slaughtered so they would not have to be fed during the winter. For many, it was the only time of year when they had a supply of fresh meat. In addition, most wine and beer made during the year was finally fermented and ready for drinking.
In Germany, people honored the pagan god Oden during the mid-winter holiday. Germans were terrified of Oden, as they believed he made nocturnal flights through the sky to observe his people, and then decide who would prosper or perish. Because of his presence, many people chose to stay inside.
So basically it was the time of year that people loved to celebrate in, then after the Birth of Christ it became the time of year Christians celebrated his birth.
To today when most people celebrate Christmas, even though christians and non christians alike don’t even know why.
Smile.
Humanity.
Love it!
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