Traditions of Christmas are for All

Since the dawn of man the winter solstice has been celebrated to bring light and warmth to the darkest and coldest time of the year. The Norse celebrated Yule, recognizing the return of the sun, by bringing home large logs and would feast until the log burned out from December 21^st to early January. Europeans had time to celebrate at the end of December and were able to enjoy the fruits of their labour from the past year. Not having to be fed during the winter, livestock was slaughtered and most wine and beer had fermented for consumption providing the perfect time of the year to enjoy a fresh supply of food and beverage.

In the 4^th century Christians were allowed to celebrate Saturnalia and the Christian doctrine declared December 25^th as the birth of Jesus encouraging many to convert to Christianity. Celebrating Christmas for Christians at the time entailed drinking, sexual indulgence, singing naked in the streets, etc.

In the Mid 17^th century, realizing that Christmas was a derivative from a pagan ritual and not the actual birthday of Jesus, Christmas was banned by the Puritans in England and in the state of Massachusetts. Elsewhere in the world Christmas was a raucous carnival holiday until the 19th century when Americans began to embrace Christmas as a family-centered day of peace and nostalgia. Christmas became popular when it was declared a federal holiday in the United States on June 26, 1870.

Christmas of today has evolved from the religious festival as the Christian celebration of the birth of Jesus combined with many pagan origins and ambiguous non-religious resonances. Today’s meaning of Christmas is of peace and joy and good will toward men. This is something that is reflected in all religions which means Christmas is for all. December 25^th is not Jesus true birthday, but a representation of hope in the darkest times. It is a time when all should care about the less fortunate and help each other prepare for a better and more prosperous future.

Many traditions, such as gift giving, derived from giving to those unfortunate during the winter solstice celebrations when their need was most needed. This holiday season there a many more in need. If your circumstances are better than most be sure to get into the Christmas spirit and help those in need around you and spread peace and joy to all.