December 23, 2017

"Yule" by Jim Culp

 December 21st marked the first day of Yule for those of us that choose to be called Pagans. It will last until the first day of Imbolg, on February 2nd. December 21st is the day that the year dies, and the long nights and frosty temperatures let us know that a New Year is coming soon, and that we should celebrate the passing of the year, or the death of the old, and the birth of the new.

In ancient Egypt; Ra, the creator of man and the sun, would battle his enemy Apep, an evil serpent who wished eternal night. Apep would wait at the horizon, and wait for Ra to end his day, and attempt to seize control each night. Ra's rival god (goddess) Isis would also scheme against Ra, because she wished more than anything for her son Horus to be the supreme god. But every morning, Ra (symbolized by the sun) would rise, and give life back to the Earth.
The end of the year on December 21st symbolizes the death of the god in many beliefs, and three days later December 25th symbolizes the birth of a god who would deliver man from his woes, and create a path for him to forever offer his soul to an almighty god.
We here in our house celebrate Yule by lighting the Yule log (many times symbolized by a candle) and remembering those that died this year. We celebrate their memories, because we have long ago mourned their passing.
We will eat food provided by the sea, and drink wine provided by the Earth. Also this year, we'll watch the Steelers pound the crap out of another one of their adversaries; because we ain't just Pagans, we're good 'Mercans...by golly.
If you are among my friends and loved ones, you are as diverse in your beliefs and cultures, and I respect each and every one of them.
So I say to you... may you all have a Blessed Yule Season, and blessings upon you and your houses in the coming year.

Cheers,

-Jim