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What does New Year mean to us??
At one second past Midnight on January 1st, a change which ends one year and begins the next, the unique tick of the clock, prompts us to celebrate and reflect, look back, take stock, assess how we did and resolve to do better. Largely, we fail to keep those resolutions too 😉😉
It could be that we want to 'resolve and make better', have a certain control in the moment that we've survived another Year and have very little control on what's to come!!
Interestingly, New Year's resolutions also commonly include us treating others better, making new friends, and this has been seen throughout history.
The Babylonians would return borrowed objects, the Jewish Community seek and offer forgiveness. Scots go 'first footing', visiting neighbours to wish them well. Dutch, see it as a symbol of success, and eat doughnuts. Greeks bake special Vassilopitta cake with a coin inside, bestowing good luck in the coming Year, on whoever finds the slice. Fireworks on New Year's Eve started in China millennia ago, as a way to chase off evil spirits..... the Japanese hold New Year Bonenkai, or 'forget the year parties,' to bid farewell to the problems and concerns of the past year and prepare for a better one.
For many cultures, houses are scrubbed to sweep out the bad vibes and make room for better ones. Coal bought to the door would ensure a bright burning coal fire throughout the coming year.
There are literally hundreds of good luck rituals woven among New Year celebrations …..
In pre Christian Rome, the day was dedicated to Janus, god of gateways and beginnings for whom January is also named. A lovely sentiment and however we want to view this time of Year, I think for Companions who support your loved one's, we look forwards to bringing value to another Year and the sense of purpose and achievement made each day …
So every day, fill your Champagne glass of life to the brim with values - and drink deep to your life and the joy that it can be and should be …. we'll be motivating and encouraging fun and laughter in to 2023 ......
Look out for New Year Themed activities in the coming week!!