Medieval legend holds that St. Boniface thwarted a human sacrifice that used an oak tree. He smashed the oak tree with his fist and a small fir tree sprang up. Boniface suggested that this small tree symbolized Christ himself. In the sixteenth century Artisans Guilds decorated huge trees in front of their halls with candy, pretzels, nuts and fruits for the benefit of the area children. By the nineteenth century trees were especially popular with the nobility who began the use of candles and fancy baubles to enhance the majestry of the tree.
The most common myth is that pagans decorated trees for the Winter Solstice on the 21st of December. This custom was then adapted by Christians when they began to celebrate the birth of Christ on December 25th. In any event, whatever its origins the Christmas tree has become a staple of many homes during the holiday season.
What's in a Tree?
People use a variety of trees to celebrate the Christmas holiday. Some use real fir or evergreen trees carefully chose from lots off trees in local tree lots. Others, often because of young children or pets choose artificial trees that mimic the spruce in its rich green color. For some the Christmas tree is a work of modern art with aluminum branches coated in shining silver.
What goes on the tree is just as important as the kind of tree chosen. Many people prefer theme trees based on specific color schemes or time periods. Others use only natural materials on a real tree. Some folks even now will use clip on candles to light the tree.
But for some the Christmas tree is more than a decoration. It can be in reality a family album. As a family connects and grows often ornaments are used to commemorate occasions such as a couple's first Christmas together or a baby's first Christmas in the family. Other times a tree will show the gradual aging of the family with ornaments made from kindergarten through middle school. For such decorators the tree is more than just a work of art, it is a family history, a conglomeration of wonders created by circumstance and children. These ornaments and lights become heirlooms of a family's history that is shared each year as the tree takes center stage again.
Sharing a Tree
In whatever way a tree is designed and used as a decoration, it is an expression of celebration. For some it is religious with the angels and tree top stars representing parts of the nativity story, for others it is a non religious decoration designed to please the eye or warn the heart. In any event, having a tree in the living room suggests that something is different. Something is being celebrated and usually that involves family and friends.
This year, take note of the Christmas trees in your life and appreciate them for what they are.
Merry Christmas
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