Christmas trees cross cultures and are a relatively new tradition, believed to have begun in Germany in the 16th century. Although artificial trees are becoming popular, bringing a tree home from the tree farm or the tree lot is still a cherished tradition for many families.
Once when our girls were little during our time in Venezuela, we had to get a plastic tree (and the entire apartment smelled like a new shower curtain), but other than that, we've always brought in a live one. To me, keeping the tree real is in harmony with keeping Christmas real.
One evening recently we settled in to watch the documentary "European Christmas," narrated and directed by Rick Steves. He gives us a look into Europe's rich history, tradition and ancestry of Christmas celebrations.
As in America, each country has its blend of Christian and non-Christian elements. It was all beautiful and enchanting, but what inspired me the most, although perhaps not explicitly intended, was the thread that runs through the traditions--the celebration of the birth of the Christ child.
Viewing "European Christmas" encouraged me to look at the aspects of Christmas that express and reinforce my faith rather than bemoan how we struggle against commercialism and anti-Christian sentiment in our current culture at this time of year. It gave me a broader lens through which to view the positive aspects of the celebration that connects many cultures around the world.
I highly recommend viewing "European Christmas." If your family is of European descent, you may find it especially enlightening, but I'm sure all will find it to be a Christmas delight as you sense the joy and wonder of how Christmas is celebrated in this part of the world.
We watched "European Christmas" on Amazon Prime, but you can also view it on Rick Steves' website. If you click the image, it will take to there.
