Welcoming the Holidays

The time of year from mid October to mid February is packed with holidays, feasts, parades, parties and ceremonies. Most countries in the northern hemisphere or who's majority of resident's ancestors came from the northern hemisphere celebrate
the end of the harvest, marking the the time of the greatest abundance of food with various harvest festivals like Thanksgiving. In December the winter solstice festivals begin, marking the shortest day of the year, representing the death of the sun,with the following day marking it's rebirth. Many religions have adopted this death and rebirth theme for the ceremonies they hold during this time of year.
Since this is a dark time of year, celebrations usually include candles, lanterns, bon fires, electric lights, fireworks and special long burning (yule) log fires to lift the spirit. It is a time of gift giving and visiting family and loved ones.
Being a non-Christian and having lived in Hawaii twice, I have chosen to see this whole holiday season as The Makahiki. In old Hawaii, the entire winter season was one long festival of peace and abundance called the Makahiki, which means year and refers to end of the old year and beginning of a new one. It began on the first night that the Pleiades constellation became visible, in what we call November and lasted until the constellation fade from view in February. Dedicated to Lono, the god of clouds, rain, agriculture, peace, prosperity and wisdom, the Makahiki was a time when war was banned and most social restrictions were loosened. After paying their taxes in food and crafts, people traveled the islands for visits, feasts, sports competitions, gift exchanges, dancing, chanting and religious ceremonies. Times have not changed all that much. Most of us still do the same things, although we may honor different gods.
Each year I put up a small tree form, made of metal and covered with wicker, string it with lights and decorate it with ornaments representing the earth,sea and sky. I call it my Makahiki Tree.
We all have our own personal, family and cultural traditions. The important thing is to remember that no matter what our differences, this should be a time of peace and joy.

Happy Holidays