MERRY 'LITTLE CHRISTMAS'
December 30, 2016
My first encounter with the modern practice of proudly ripping down the Christmas tree and efficiently packing up the decorations on Christmas Day was more than a little shocking--it left me with a sense of having a rug pulled out from under all who were still basking in the warmth and joy of Christmas Day. Surely the disassemblers could at least wait until December 26.
My first encounter with the modern practice of proudly ripping down the Christmas tree and efficiently packing up the decorations on Christmas Day was more than a little shocking--it left me with a sense of having a rug pulled out from under all who were still basking in the warmth and joy of Christmas Day. Surely the disassemblers could at least wait until December 26.
Prompted by retailers, modern households seem to start celebrating Christmas earlier each year. We complained when stores first unveiled the Christmas season before Thanksgiving. Decorations can now be found as early as Halloween!
Had I been familiar with the liturgical calendar, I would not have felt guilty all the years when I Ieft my decorations up until after New Year's Day. Several years ago, my dear German friend, Miss Ruth, introduced me to 'Little Christmas,' also known as Epiphany. God bless Miss Ruth.
I favor the old tradition of celebrating Christmas begining on Christmas Day and lasting for 12 days--the Twelve Days of Christmas. More than turtle doves and gold rings, each of the 12 days has a special celebration, beginning with the birth of Jesus on Christmas Day.
Epiphany Eve (the 12th night) formerly included large parties, games, bagpipes, and Wasseiling. Rich cake was served, much like the modern Italian Panettone with fruit, nut, and spices. Some traditions include adding the Wise Men to the nativity scene Epiphany Eve.
Epiphany, on January 6, celebrates the manifestation of Christ to the Gentiles as represented by the Magi (Matthew 2:1–12).
I especially like the meaning of 'epiphany' as defined by www.dictionary.com, " a sudden, intuitive perception of or insight into the reality or essential meaning of something, usually initiated by some simple, homely, or commonplace occurrence or experience."
Oh Holy Night--when the divine touched the common and made it holy.
Decorations are still in place in our home while we celebrate warmth and joy during the Twelve Days of Christmas. Miss Ruth is fondly remembered during this time--she will forever remain in my heart as I celebrate ' Little Christmas.'
Comments
Post a Comment