Lately I have been enjoying people’s pictures of their Christmas trees on Facebook.
Seeing these posts makes me eager to get our own tree up and decked out in all my favourite and treasured ornaments. While everyone has his or her own tastes when it comes to decorating, one thing common to all is the desire to create a beautiful and meaningful work of art. Worldwide, Christmas trees have become one of the most visible symbols of this holiday.
Interestingly enough, the idea of using green boughs to decorate homes in the winter originated in pagan times. Thousands of years ago, people observed the winter solstice by using evergreens to remind them of spring and the hope it brings. Some even believed that the greenery would ward off evil spirits.
It was many years later when the Christmas tree would make its appearance in Europe as part of Christian celebrations. Germany is credited with starting the tradition in the 16th century, and Martin Luther with adding lighted candles to imitate the bright stars in the dark sky. Immigrants of German descent then brought the tradition to America, but the practice was slow to take root as Puritans discouraged any observances that were linked to pagan celebrations.
But in 1846, Queen Victoria (who was very well-liked), and her husband, Prince Albert (who was German), popularized the trend in the United Kingdom by decorating their own Christmas tree.
By the 20th century, most households in Canada and United States were making the decorating of a tree an important part of their festivities. In the majority of homes, the decorations were usually simple and often homemade, unlike the showy and more expensive conifers gracing homes, businesses and shops these days.
Today, almost every country in the world uses Christmas trees to help celebrate this special season. The style of décor may differ, but the sentiment is the same.
For many communities, lighting the Christmas tree signals the beginning of joyful Advent celebrations. Take the beautiful, towering tree in Rockefeller Centre, as an example. I have visited New York City in December and made the mandatory pilgrimage to view this iconic evergreen, and must admit that there was something magical about it.
But even in our little community of Invermay, folks look forward to the annual display of the big Christmas tree in the middle of Main Street. It is a tradition that was started many years ago, then abandoned for a few decades, but (thankfully) resurrected not long ago. It is strenuous work getting that tree installed, but well-worth the results. Seeing that tree all lit up seems to proclaim and serve as a reminder that the season for joy, good will, and heartfelt exchanges is now upon us.
Times may change, but the Christmas tree has endured throughout the ages, and I, for one, look forward to trimming the tree, watching the lights twinkle in the dark and enjoying the expressions on my grandchildren’s faces as they check out Grandma’s tree.
