Happy Holidays!
Around this time of year, many of us celebrate various holiday traditions with friends and family. It’s a time of year that makes me curious about traditions past and present, what to let go of and what to bring back.
Our story, THE LAST WITCH, follows Elizabeth Johnson Jr’s journey to exoneration from her conviction 1692 to her freedom in 2022, and beyond. Hers is one that challenges us to think about how our historical roots influence our contemporary relationships.
Elizabeth reminds us that we and our world are not that different from the time that she lived in colonial Massachusetts. Family ties and human connections were as important then as they are now.
Of course, in the 1600’s, people did not celebrate holidays as we do today. In fact, Christmas was banned from 1659 to 1681 because it was felt that it was too pagan and thus un-Christian to celebrate. Elizabeth would have been around 10 years old when the ban was lifted.
Breaking the ban meant a hefty fine, so people kept working. Christmas Day itself did not become a public holiday in Massachusetts until 1856.
That made me consider other traditions that I take for granted around time of year. One that is significant to me, and perhaps to you, is to take some time off from work between Christmas and New Years.
I discovered out that the tradition to take a break during this season is older than I could imagine. Not working or limiting work in the middle of winter (except to take care of the animals) is part of old pagan traditions.
A winter break is also reflected in the Twelve Days of Christmas that found popularity in the 1500s in England during Tudor times. December 25 to January 5 was designated for various festivities and taking time off, something we all need to recharge and energize for next year.
We all deserve that break, time to reflect and time to enjoy. I hope you do as well!
