December 13, 2022
I thought I would post “The 12 Days of Christmas” on Facebook differently: instead of talking about self-care, beating the winter blues, or the holiday stress. I have, and others have indeed spoken enough about that.
However, I did strike a chord with a few of my Catholic friends on the Christian theology that marks the birth of Christ and the coming of the Magi, the three wise men. It begins on December 25 (Christmas) and runs through January 6 (the Epiphany), or Three Kings’ Day.
I am not a theologian but a lover of holiday traditions and Christmas carols! Besides, Snopes has debunked the Christian hidden meaning theory with many explanations and holes in the logic. The word “Christmas” would not have been sung in carols to conceal any secret messages.
In addition, the late historian William Shutwell, known for his Christmas carol expertise, also refuted the coded message idea. So I may be a derivative, but not the source.
Let’s go back to 1780, and the English Christmas Carol by Andrew Carter and Frederic Austin (composer) still starts with Christmas Day until January 6.
Researching the beginnings of this carol. It could have been the children’s memory game “memory-and-forfeits.” The participants were required to repeat the verse of poetry and, if an error occurred, were required to pay the penalty in the form of a kiss or confection!
Another suggestion, it is an old English drinking song….. that furnished the idea of the first gift! Most of our traditional Christmas carols are old English.
By joining the word “Christ” in celebrating the birth of the Son of God, the word “mass” means supper, celebration, or festival. Gives the simple meaning of Christmas.
So, what about “The 12 Days of Christmas?” On a lighter note………There are many fun parody versions of the song. Check these out:
- Jeff Foxworthy – “Redneck 12 Days of Christmas”
- Bob and Doug McKenzie – “12 Days of Christmas”
- John Denver and The Muppets – “Twelve Days of Christmas”
- Bob Rivers – “The Twelve Pains of Christmas”
- Star Wars – “12 Days of Christmas”
- Allan Sherman – “The Twelve Gifts of Christmas”
It is 2022, and the Modern version of “The 12 Days of Christmas” is a charming and creative way to celebrate the arrival of Christmas with Gift Ideas!
Try these:
- Partridge in a Pear tree – potted pear tree scented pear sprays & soaps, the fruit of the Month subscription, Family Tree photo frame
- Two Turtle Doves – “Dove” brand chocolate, Dove theme jewelry, or Christmas ornament.
- Three French Hens – French cookbook, serve chicken for supper.
Stay tuned for the rest of my “The 12 Days of Christmas” daily FB posts. Add your version…….
Let’s be light, fun, and creative. Just SMILE!
Smiling decreases cortisol and is the best way to reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and boost your immune system.
A simple smile prompts the brain to produce endorphins and serotonin, causing positive emotions! It can also make the people around you, make someone smile back, and make them feel better about themselves and their situation.
“Never stop smiling because the eyes are the window to your soul and the smile the front door to your heart.”
It’s the HOLIDAYS!
Until tomorrow ….keep it simple and light and add to the list of what to give or get “from your true love” or family for the Fourth Day of Christmas! SEE YOU on Social Media.