We have a number of reasons to celebrate today
Even though it has been a wonderfully
mild winter, it is still uplifting to watch the flowers starting
to bloom and know it’s Easter and spring has really arrived. We
see colorful Easter eggs and signs of the Easter bunny, a symbol
that originated with the goddess Eastre, who was worshipped by the
Anglo-Saxons.
The date of Easter is determined by the moon, and
ever since 325 AD, it has been celebrated on the first Sunday following
the first full moon after March 21. Even in Greek mythology, Demeter
and Persephone, convey the idea of a goddess returning seasonally
from the nether regions to the light of day in conjunction with
the vernal equinox, March 21.
The English name, Easter was used by the early English
Christians who, hoping others would accept Christianity, decided
to use the name Easter so it would match the old “Eastre” celebration,
making it more comfortable for others to adopt the new religion.
Some point out that the Easter festival is related
with the Hebrew tradition, the Jewish Passover, which commemorates
Israel’s deliverance from about 300 years of bondage in Egypt. Easter
holidays in different countries are celebrated at different times
of the year. In New Zealand, people attend church over the weekend
to celebrate the death and resurrection of Christ and to mark the
end of Lent.
In the Czech Republic, Easter is no longer considered
a great religious holiday, but is observed as a celebration of the
vibrant spring season and a chance for a family gathering,
Of course, everywhere women and children love to
dress in their most colorful and newest clothes. Visit New York
City today from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and watch the gorgeous outfits,
complete with extravagant Easter hats, paraded down Fifth Avenue.
Others opt for the famous egg hunt on the great lawn of the White
House.
Whatever you decide to do, it is a wonderful time
to celebrate with family and friends.
The sleepy colors of winter
Fade fast in the dawn of Spring
The joy of Easter’s promise Continued...
Delivers sweet reason to sing.
— Author Unknown
- Article by Jean Cherni, founder of the retirement
advisory service, Senior Living Solutions. Contact her at jeancherni@sbcglobal.net
or 15 The Ponds at Hotchkiss Grove, Branford 06405.
To read
previous "Senior Moments" articles written by Jean Cherni
please click here.
