Holiday Greetings to ALL –
As we take this time to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, and spend some quality time with family and friends, I would also like us to keep in mind the “reason for the season”. Christmas Day was chosen over 1000 years ago, as the day to commemorate the birth of the man known as Jesus. The fact that the evidence show that “Christ was born on Christmas Day” is a fallacy, based on the manipulation of “pagan” myths, does not deter us from participating in this annual ritual every December 25th. As such, fiction becomes “non-fiction”, and historical fact becomes distorted, by the infusion of age-old myths.
Like the story of Jesus’ birth, the “birth” of the steelband and the steel drum/pan, have also become shrouded in myth. As such, steelband and pan history have, for all practical purposes, become endeavors in decoding the myths surrounding those histories. Granted, we all have the rights and freedoms to choose what we believe, however, those rights and freedoms come with the provision that you also understand that your choice does not dictate the facts, as to whether or not something is true or factual.
It is written that Jesus Christ, came as a necessary intervening factor in human history; that we were “born in sin”, and needed a “redeemer”. It is said that his “coming” was prophesized for hundreds and hundreds of years before he was born. Of course, we can argue as to the day he arrived, and with credible evidence proving that on the twenty-fifth day of December, it is the Sun that is “born”, and the three stars (Magi or kings) of Orion’s belt (the stellar constellation), point to the place where the sun rises on that day. However, this is the day chosen by the Bishops of the Roman Catholic church, and the one we have been following and accepting (whether be it fiction or non-fiction) for the last millennium.
Having said that, as we accept this day as the “birth of the Son”, let us keep in mind that on this day, “pagans” celebrated the “birth of the Sun”, for thousands of years before the “Son of Man” was said to have been born. Regardless of one’s belief, I am hopeful that we do not become one of those, of whom Jesus, once he grew up, would end up calling “hypocrites and parasites”. My mother always used to tell me, and still says, “A true Christian, is not just a believer in Christ, but a follower of Christ”.
As a “follower” of Christ, one would look at the numerous examples he set, as according to the Bible, which happens to still be the “Holy Book” of “Christians”. For many, this day is all (and only) about opening presents under Christmas trees. And tomorrow becomes the day to return those of which they do not like. Christmas, in effect, has become more and more commercialized, and less about the “reason for the Season”, of course, assuming there was (and is) a “reason” in the first instance. Like Christmas, Carnival (with its roots also embedded in “pagan” ritual; hence “bacchanal”, in honor of Bacchus), has also become highly commercialized. And like unwanted gifts, the steelbands become the rejected presents, scheduled for removal from our annual ritual known as Carnival.
In this season of “goodwill”, it is my wish that we reflect on the “Christ-principle”, whether we are “Christian” or not. (I am not, by the way.) The word “Christ”, translates to “anointed”, and I honestly believe that we can ALL become “anointed”. I believe that Christ “came” to lead by example; to show us how to be concerned about those less fortunate than us. To care about each other and the planet on which we live. To understand the value of forgiveness, and of being forgiven by the “Unseen”. To be able to leave this world, after making some positive impact that will benefit others, besides our immediate family members and loved ones. To stand up for what is right, even in the face of ridicule, persecution and prosecution. To be willing to die for God, and be willing to give up all your earthly possessions to walk (and talk) with God. To give freely and with open heart. To know that God is on your side, and that NO man can shake your faith. A faith that is not based on belief, but on the knowledge that you built on doing your own research. To me, that is the “Christ principle”; the faithful adoption of Christ’s examples in your daily lives, rather than the superfluous Sunday service attendances, the giving money to the church, and the seasonal festive reminders of his birth and death.
Finally, in that faith, I again extend my hands in brotherly love to each and every one of you, in wishing you a very healthy (in body, mind and spirit), successful (whatever “success” means to you), and happy New Year 2014. I also look forward to our “town hall” meeting in March; to meeting some of you for the first time, to sitting and discussing with you, your concerns and ideas for the steelbands of Trinidad and Tobago, and to building lasting amicable relationships with you.
Respectfully,
George D. Goddard/Ghost. Same philosophy; different attitude.
Replies
The very best of life to you too Ghost and family, I am wishing for collective clarity among the leadership, and true legacies which honor past, present and future humanity. See you soon!
Thanks, Spiceman. Same to you and yours. See you soon! Ghost.
God's blessings be upon you all at this Christmas time and throughout the year.
Thanks Ms. Lydia, for appreciating my message. Best wishes for 2014. Ghost.