A Seasonal Message

Traditionally one of the major holidays at this time of year is Christmas. As not everyone is of the same faith, allow me to put forth a brief explanation of the significance of the date chosen, as well as a suggestion that will hopefully enhance the lives of all those who chose to consider it.

December 25th was decreed as the official date of Jesus’ birth by Pope Julian, in 345 C.E., under the auspices of a newly converted Roman Empire. Yet, since the earliest civilizations, major religious festivals, in all beliefs, have taken place in late autumn, early winter.

The timing followed the course of nature. Late autumn being a time to give thanks for the harvest, the winter a time of rest with rebirth in the spring.

The date for the revelry known as the Roman Saturnalia and pagan festival of Yule, both celebrating the winter solstice, coincided with the birth of the Mithras the Persian god said to have been born on December 25. Mithraism a rival to Christianity, had reached Rome c 67 B.C.E. Pope Julian, cleverly appropriated these dates. There can be no argument that it is easier to get people to follow established patterns, than to acquire new ones.

For two millennia the historical Jesus has been the cause of wars rooted on religious intolerance. Today, the debate rages on as to whether Jesus actually existed. In my opinion it is essential that we stop emphasizing the messenger and focus on the message.

Be it two thousand years old, or five thousand if we accept as evidence the Egyptian myth the message, similarly believed by most religions of the world, is that every human being carries within a “Spark” of Divine Manifestation.

Accepting that a “Divine Spark” joins all human beings, frees us to overlook physical and intellectual differences and realize that we are all derive from the same “Source”.

With that principle in common we can use nature as a model, and look at this time of year, as a time to shed the old branches that draw on our resources. Let go of old grudges forgive those whom you believe have grieved you; forgive yourself for having allowed unkind feelings and thoughts to steer you away from compassion and love.

Use the time between now and Spring to reflect inwardly and strengthen your inner “Spark”, allow the Light from Within to shine BRIGHTLY!
BLESSINGS