Advent slows the rush of a chaotic world into a whisper of peace. – Allene vanOirschot, children’s author
The joy that you give to others is the joy that comes back to you. – John Greenleaf Whittier, American Quaker poet (1807-1892)
December 26 in certain parts of the world is known as Boxing Day and the feast of Saint Stephen, the first Christian martyr. An official holiday in England is Boxing Day. In Victorian times the prosperous would box up items to give to the poor and for those who worked for them during the holidays. The workers would go to their homes with special boxes of treats and spend time with their own families. Some families celebrated Boxing Day by hiding small presents around the home for the children to find, even suggesting perhaps they had fallen out of Santa’s knapsack.
On December 27 in Sarah Ban Breathnach’s “Mrs. Sharp’s Traditions” it’s suggested to use the day to present new stationary to each of the family members and have them write thank you notes for the gifts they received.
On December 28 there are some places and people who observe “Holy Innocents Day.” While most traditions are full of fun and frolic, not so with this one also called “Childermas,” so much as it acknowledges the execution of innocent male children in Bethlehem as told in Matthew 2:16. The day is often one where children are honored by gathering together with siblings, cousins, and friends with show and tell of their presents followed by hot chocolate and cookies. Holy Innocents Day has been celebrated since before the end of the fifth century. If anything, it is a reminder to love all children. “Children are a gift from the Lord.” (Psalms 127:3)
December 30 also is suggested by Sarah Ban Breathnach for taking a holiday break to see something entertaining even if it’s on television, watch the “Nutcracker” or eat a meal at a festive restaurant – lunch or dinner. Sarah says no fast-food or sugary snacks, instead a grown-up extravaganza for the little ones. I personally enjoy coffee shops that serve delicious brownies or blueberry muffins. Something I don’t often do for myself.
January 6, we celebrate the Feast of Epiphany or the Twelfth Night. This celebration is the day honoring the gifts of the Magi or those also called Wisemen, who had traveled to Bethlehem to find the Christ Child. Because there were three of the visitors it is thought they each brought a gift, gold, frankincense, and myrrh. Since the first centuries of Christianity, it was thought that the gifts had meaning even though the Magi may not have realized the significance. Gold for his kingship, frankincense as an incense of worship, and myrrh an ointment used for burial. “And they offered him wine mingled with myrrh: but he did not take it.” (Mark 15:23).
Another note from Sarah Ban Breathnach paraphrased: “Whether or not you know it, you are creating memories among children, family, and friends. When all are grown may your energies have been spent creating a Christmas season worth remembering.”
Shannon Bardwell is a writer living quietly in the Prairie. Email reaches her at [email protected].
You can help your community
Quality, in-depth journalism is essential to a healthy community. The Dispatch brings you the most complete reporting and insightful commentary in the Golden Triangle, but we need your help to continue our efforts. In the past week, our reporters have posted 35 articles to cdispatch.com. Please consider subscribing to our website for only $2.30 per week to help support local journalism and our community.
You can help your community
Quality, in-depth journalism is essential to a healthy community. The Dispatch brings you the most complete reporting and insightful commentary in the Golden Triangle, but we need your help to continue our efforts. In the past week, our reporters have posted 35 articles to cdispatch.com. Please consider subscribing to our website for only $2.30 per week to help support local journalism and our community.
Join the Discussion