Winter Traditions Unplugged

December 10, 2013 — Christmas, customs, Mithra, Saturnalia

The ancient world was more highly aware of the seasons than we are today because they had to make fire to stay warm or see at night. Religion, tradition, and regional provincialism are woven together at the winter solstice time.  We have a food and drink festival that imitates Saturnalia and a birthday the resembles the birth of Mithra.  I believe I have inherited some feelings for Christmas from the way my ancestors behaved.  I have had the good fortune to be in other countries to celebrate the season, which opened my eyes to the wide variety and regional roots of the holiday practices.  I choose the part I like and feel no pressure to perform now that my ancestors are all dead.  I see the end of the year as a fun break before tax organization season, and a good excuse to party with friends.  We give few gifts, but like to share extra food and drink with friends.  I like to embrace it as an upside down time, a season for preparation and clearing.  Spring will be right around the corner, when the harvest cycle can begin once more.  For now, God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen; it is time to party.