The holiday season is the time of the year when the whole world takes a break to enjoy family, love, and friendship among other things. To Christians, this is a time of remembrance of the birth of their savior Jesus Christ. To non worshippers of this religion however, this time of the year is not of utmost importance.



Holiday break

Stores and other commercial establishments do take advantage of the holiday season to increase revenues. However, this does not mean that they believe in celebrating the holidays. In fact, not everyone allows himself to celebrate the season of giving. Despite this, the holiday breaks allow employees and workers alike to take advantage of the season.

They are able to unwind, de-stress and spend more time at home. Thus, regardless of the religion and their own beliefs, the holiday season enables people of various spiritual inclinations to spend more time with their families. This is excluding some who actually work overtime and double time during this busy season of gift giving.

Origins of decorating

Meanwhile, it has been a tradition during the holidays to decorate and set an ambience for the season. For some, decorating during the holidays is an important aspect of celebrating the season. In fact, some anticipate this task and have been able to appreciate the symbolisms associated with some holiday décor.

For instance, the Christmas tree was said to have originated in the 7th century where a monk was said to offer a tree to a village he set on evangelizing. This is said to be the first Christmas tree and it was decorated with white candles. The tradition soon spread after.

In addition, ornaments were once either made of glass or were of edible materials. The Europeans who are known to be excellent glass makers are said to have started the tradition of using glass as ornaments. Meanwhile, edible materials were used as ornaments because of financial difficulties during specific times in history.

Lastly, the cane is said to have originated from Germany. There really are a number of variations in the origins of the candy cane. One story is about a German choir leader who as a practice gave candies to those who performed well. The candy cane as we know it now is said to have evolved in shape, and is now considered to symbolize the purity of Christ with its color (white). Despite of the differences of opinion on the origin of this ornament, it is here to stay and has in fact been a tradition that has spread all-over the world.

Decorating your homes or offices during the holidays sure is a good way to make everyone feel a more festive ambience during this season. However, if you are to decorate your office and not all your co-workers are Christians, be sure to be careful with the use of religious symbols. Not everyone may celebrate this season in the same way that majority of the cultures do. Despite this, reaching out to people of various beliefs must and should be observed and respect of the differences you may have with them should be at the top of your To-Do list.