Wintertide – December 30th

Character is the ability to carry out a good resolution long after the excitement of the moment has passed.

Cavett Robert

The tradition of New Year’s resolutions, the detailed listing of promises to ourselves towards change and self-improvement, dates back centuries. 

It’s believed ancient cultures, like the Babylonians, promised their gods to pay debts, return charity, and reaffirm loyalty to figureheads during the springtime planting of crops. If kept, worshipers would receive favor in the coming year. If not, wrath from the gods would ensue.

Emperor Caesar announced starting the new year on January 1st. Named after the Roman deity Janus, a two-faced god looking forward and back, the month contained offering sacrifices and promises of good behavior. Modern Protestant Churches continue religious interests on the holiday by hosting watch night services on either New Year’s Eve or Day. The events celebrate repentance and renewal.

Over the next 24 hours, we’ll erase, scribble, and tweak our lists of resolution perfection. When the clock strikes twelve, it activates, and our lives change for the better with no pagan gods or Emperors necessary. Although, a little New Year’s magic never hurts.  

photo credit: unsplash Tim Mossholder

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