Embracing all holiday celebrations

[cpbaby]

I agree!!!

[jaybird]

Ah, it's that time of year again. You know, seeing chestnuts roasting on an open fire, trimming the Christmas tree, drinking eggnog and celebrating the enlightenment of Buddha.

Wait. What? Buddha? He's not a part of the Christmas tradition. Darn right he isn't. But what if he was? Would you recognize it as a "legitimate" holiday? In fact, what is a legitimate holiday in this great melting pot, called the US?

Although the most commonly known holiday celebrated during December is Christmas, it's important to realize that there is more to the holiday season than that. There is the Enlightenment of Buddha, celebrated by Buddhists on December 8, to commemorate Buddha attaining the highest form of the enlightenment or nirvana.

This is also the season of Hanukkah, which is the celebration of the re-consecration of a Jewish temple that is celebrated for eight days. This year, Hanukkah is celebrated from November 30 to December 7.

There is also the Fiesta of Our Lady of Guadalupe which commemorates the Virgin Mary appearing to a young boy and is celebrated on December 12.

And then there's Kwanzaa, the celebration of the seven African principles is celebrated from December 26-January 1.

Also, there is El-Ud-Fitr, a Muslim holiday is also celebrated in December to mark the end of the holy month of Ramadan. This year, El-Ud-Fitr will be celebrated on December 17.

Pagans celebrate up to eight Sabbats each year. These mark important events in the cycle of life and also symbolize changes in the Goddess and God. On December 21st, Pagans will celebrate Yule, the rebirth of the sun and the gradual lengthening of the days towards springtime and new life.

As you can see there are numerous holidays being celebrated besides Christmas this month. So, before going home for winter vacation and shredding gift wrap, it's important to keep an open mind about other holiday celebrations.

***However you choose to celebrate this season, do it joyfully and safely***

[ahippiechic]

Thanx for posting that!

[jadegentle]

Great and true post!