I’m sitting at my desk sipping some gingebread tea. It’s one of my favourite flavours and one that is perfect for this time of year. I’m feeling more into the holiday spirit than I have so far this year. There’s even a small bit of snow on the ground here, finally. It’s a nice feeling to be warm inside and know it’s bitterly cold outside, and is possibly the one aspect of this season that has imbued most of my fondest memories, sharing that contrasting warmth with those I love.
Last night I was talking with Ashley, a dear friend of mine and a girl who was my lover for a couple years. She reminded me of the first week we shared together during December and it brought back pleasant memories for me. It’s always so invigorating to be in love, but I find that is especially true during this time of year. It’s been a couple years since I last had someone with me during the holidays, and I find myself missing that comfort.
If you’re in the mood for a wicked Christmas album, I can’t recommend Crash Test Dummies’ Jingle All The Way, a collection that Brad Roberts calls, “pretty much the craziest Christmas collection I’ve ever heard.” I’d have to agree, but would make mention that the songs Ms. Ellen Reid sings on are sublimely beautiful, and in contrast with Brad’s more more devious renditions of songs such as “Jingle Bells” and “White Christmas.” If nothing else, the classic “The First Noel” is worth getting this treasure for.
Did you know that my cat’s namesake, Mithra, the Iranian (Persian) god of light, contracts and friendship, who also maintains cosmic order and was venerated by peoples of many cultures, including India and Rome, was the god who was actually born on what is now celebrated as Christmas? Mithraism paralleled Christianity quite significantly, including virgin birth, Mithra’s role as mankind’s saviour, having twelve followers and undergoing a resurrection. Don’t you think Mithramas has a nice ring to it?
7 comments on “Gingerbread and Cheer”
Gingerbread tea! No kidding! Where can I get some of this stuff?
Even though I hate the bitter cold (-17C right now!) and the snow, it still makes me happy in December.
I think it can be found in most grocery stores, but I did get this box last year (I horded them away, knowing it’d be a seasonal treat).
Yep, I keep good company, no?
Mithraism is an interesting religion. It’s just the strongest example of one of the many religions Christianity grew out of.
I didn’t know that about widowed people, but it does make sense. This time of year can be lonely, quite in contrast with the more heartwarming experiences we might share with our families. I’m sure it’s especially hard on those who have lost their loved ones in some way.
Speaking of god, LISTEN TO THIS!
I remember you telling me about that. How heartbreaking a story.
pun?
Oh, I see. Definitely not intended.