Christmas tradition has ancient roots
[ 2006-12-27 14:53 ]
| At this time of the year, many
Christians around the world decorate their homes for the Christmas
holiday. In addition to the traditional Christmas tree, many people put
decorated wreaths on their door. These celebratory wreaths can trace their
roots back long before the birth of Jesus Christ, whose birth is
celebrated on Christmas day. For producer Nadia Madjid, VOA's Jim Bertel
has more on the holiday tradition of Christmas wreaths.
At this time of year, many houses and buildings in the United States
are decorated with Christmas wreaths. This tradition of adorning doors and
walls with decorative wreaths dates back to the 7th century B.C. when
wreaths made of tree branches were used to crown the winners of the
Olympic games. No one really knows how or when the head ornament became a
wall decoration. Many speculate it occurred when athletes hung their
awards on the wall as a memento of victory.
Today wreaths are made from any number of things and decorated in many
ways. Wreath making classes are offered each year at the Tudor Place
Historic House and Garden in Washington, DC. Spokeswoman Emily Rusch. "Our
wreath making workshop has been going on for a few years, and it's grown
in popularity every year. And it's very rewarding to look at the wreath on
your door and say 'yes, I made that!'"
Kim Shaw and John Zimmer say the wreath-making workshop is a great way
to get ready for the holidays. Kims says everyone gets in the spirit of
Christmas. "I think it gets everybody in the Christmas spirit, the holiday
spirit." John adds, "It's my first time, but it won't be my last, though.
I think we might be back next year, maybe bring some friends."
The wreath makers have different levels of experience and some, like
Kim Shaw, are not afraid to learn from others. "I saw her idea over there
and I thought it was really cute, so I'm going to give it a shot. So I'm
putting some things together and see what I get. Hmm, I don't know, there
are so many options!"
And John Zimmer is happy with his results. "Very proud!"
So is Kim Shaw "With pride! Yes! Yes! It's so much more fun to make it
than it is to buy it." |
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