Heading for the Holidays

     There are astronomical reasons for the similarities among celebrations this time of year.  Despite differences of culture or religion, there are common elements because we share a world.  Here in the Northern Hemisphere, we are on the verge of winter, with days growing shorter until the solstice turns the tide.  We have a sense that we are going down into darkness, and that has influenced our holidays.  Winter holidays, and those of late autumn, tend to be about light, family and tradition.  Winter holidays are about making it through to the next Spring.

     As days grow short, we crave the light.  Twinkling bulbs, flickering candles or roaring fires all remind us of brighter days and make the darkness a little less bleak.  Even the use of gold and silver in holiday decorations may be an unconscious attraction to the glints of light they reflect.

     We also recognize that the cold, dark months ahead will be more bearable if we gather friends and family around us.  We seek home and the warmth and joy it promises at this time of year.  Nature has programmed us to strengthen our social bonds, to engage in acts of generosity, and to make merry just when humans need all these things the most.  Winter inspires an urge toward fellowship and faith, and that is more universal than one worldview can contain.  But if you believe in the literal truth of the Christmas story, just ask yourself why God would send his son at the same time of year the Northern pagans were celebrating Yule, or the Persians Sacaea, or the Romans Saturnalia.  There is a precedent and a demonstrated need for comfort and joy to carry us through.  This is the season when mankind seeks togetherness and hopes for brighter days ahead.

     So, whatever your faith, whatever holiday you're anticipating, I hope you find the light and warmth to make your season bright.

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