For many of us the past twelve months have been a mix of experiences that were full of joy as well as sorrow. We have celebrated births, graduations, and weddings. Those of us who are believers in life after death have mourned our loved ones who have crossed over to the other side. We have experienced financial losses, successes, failures, pleasures and pains. Many of us have had unforeseen twists and turns that discouraged us. They are all fundamental constraints of daily living.
On January 1, 2007, those of us who are still in the land of the living will have an opportunity to follow tradition and venture into unknown territories for another twelve months. Therefore, we celebrate.
Celebrating the start of another year is perhaps the oldest and most celebrated tradition. This tradition originated with the ancient Babylonians more than 4,000 years ago. The Babylonians believed that whatever you do or eat on the first day of the year sets the tone for the outcome of rest of the year.
The idea at work in this tradition lends an opportunity to start over; or, “wipe the slate clean." We are given a renewal of life, a celebration, a chance for reflection and reconciliation.
New Year’s traditions have evolved into determined efforts to put the past behind us and usher in brand new opportunities.
The first of January was dedicated by the Romans to their God of Gates and Doors, Janus. A very old Italian God Janus, has a distinctive artistic appearance in that he is commonly depicted with two faces ... one regarding what is behind and the other looking toward what lies ahead. Thus, Janus is representative of contemplation on the happenings of an old year while looking forward to the New Year.
Most of us relish the concept of having a chance to start over, to do things differently, to atone for unjust actions and to live healthier life styles. We resolve to have a happier, healthier, and more prosperous New Year. The charge to live a life of humility and humbleness of heart is a good place to start.
In many homes, meals of humility are traditionally prepared and served on the first day of the New Year. The custom of serving humble meals such as black-eyed peas, greens, and corn bread is rich in history.
During the civil war era in Vicksburg, Virginia, the town’s people ran out of food while under siege for more than forty days. Yankee soldiers burned the entire crop with the exception of what they considered worthless weed. Among this weed grew what was then referred to as “cowpeas" Cowpeas were used as feed for cattle in that era. With no supplies coming into the town, citizens suffered deprivation. The whole town was on the brink of starvation, in desperation they humbly ate cowpeas. They felt fortunate to be able to consume “cow peas." a.k.a. “black-eyed peas." Their ability to digest cowpeas was the difference between life and death in that war ravaged town. Therein emerged the custom of serving humble dishes such as, black-eyed peas, greens and cornbread on new years Day. The belief that this will bring good luck and financial success for the New Year will find many dinner tables filled with at least some of these food products. Black-eyed peas supposedly represents coins, greens are believed to represent currency and, who would pass up an opportunity to bake a skillet of corn bread. After all, according to tradition, it represents gold.
The New Year can also be a catalyst for motivation. We can become motivated to look back over our lives, weigh our missed opportunities, evaluate what we could have done differently, and capitalize on great opportunities to start over. We can choose to think “outside of the box" and resolve to follow through on our good intentions. We can resolve to make a difference by taking advantage of second chances. We can dare to make ultimate sacrifices for our communities and ourselves. As we stand at the threshold of a brand new year, may we find strength, peace, happiness, and success in our endeavors to make this the best year ever. “Happy New Year!"
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