December 25th is designated as Christmas through most of the Western world. For some faithful, it marks the occasion of Christ's birth. For others, it is more secular in nature - Santa Claus, Frosty, Rudolph. In both cases, lessons of good will, kindness, generosity pervade. We see lights on the trees and candles in the windows, adding a gentle glow and magic to the season. |
Swahili word meaning "first fruits of the harvest. It involves the lighting of 7 candles representing the 7 core values. The Winter Solstice is right around December 21, marking the shortest day of the year. In ancient and medieval times, it was a full festival celebrating the change of the season and welcoming in the winter. |