A PAGAN CHRISTMAS part 3

HOLLY, IVY AND GARLAND

In the 15th century, it is said that Londoners had a by-law that stated that they needed to decorate their homes and churches with whatever the season had that was 'green'. For the most part that meant evergreen trees, holly leaves, bay leaves(Laurel), and ivy. Evergreens represented life because they did not die in the winter as other trees did. 

Residents would wrap evergreen around banisters, and around hearths. Placing candles around to make a charming functional centerpiece. Holly and Ivy, were both used for their greenery as well as their religious representations.

While Christianity also finds special meaning behind the holly berries and ivy  (representing the Crown of Jesus and the blood he shed).  Pagans use holly to ward off evil spirits and darkness of some magic. 

Through the years and into the modern era; we still use holly and ivy in both the Christmas and Yule celebrations. Red and green have become synonymous with the holiday season and bring a smile to any one's face. The placing of evergreen garland expanded to include putting an entire tree of evergreen in the home in accordance with the traditional 'law'. 

May the home be filled with the love, life, hope, peace and tranquility that this season brings! 

Veteran's Day Remembrance Day

This time of year seems to bring out the memories, the medals, the war stories, the tears and reflections. The problem with that is that it happens once a year. Patriotism seems to come out at holiday time and get tucked back into the closet for the rest of the year. 


Growing up on the east coast of Canada, we often traveled to Buffalo New York to visit family. I would always take notice of all the homes in New York State (along with the other 49) waving 'Old Glory' so proudly every day. There was never a good enough answer for me as to why Canadians never had our flag waving proudly off of 'our' front porches. 


It seems that Canadians are 'inwardly patriotic'. We acknowledge our Soldiers and War Veterans. We mark Remembrance Day with the reverence and honor it so richly deserves, but somehow the day-to-day patriotism that the Americans have just isn't present. 


Some of my best memories involve the Military in one form or another. From seeing my Godfather standing proudly in his Air Force uniform at CFB Trenton or being married to a well seasoned Soldier; my pledge to the Military has been steadfast and unyielding.


As Canadians, we grew up in school learning the prophetic poem 'In Flanders Fields', but again that only seems to get dusted off once a year and then tucked back for safe keeping. For a Soldier and their families, there is no 'turning on and off Patriotism'. It is there 24/7/365. It is a way of life, a daily struggle to find balance and always at the ready to give the ultimate sacrifice.


If you have ever asked yourself 'Why do we need Veteran's Day?' or 'What's the point of wearing a Poppy?' Stop, look in the mirror and say 'I'm free to complain because someone fought for my freedom'!  


Freedom has a price and it has been 'Written in Blood'. 


To all those who have served I say 'SEMPER FI', To all those who has lost I say, 'Your sacrifice was not in vain'. Finally, to those who choose not to stand behind their Military, I say ' STAND IN FRONT YOU'LL MAKE A MUCH BETTER TARGET'


DUTY, HONOR, INTEGRITY