Blue Christmas 2023: Christmas is a season to celebrate and spread joy, laughter and heartwarming traditions. But sometimes, it can be a season to remember loss, loneliness and unfulfilled dreams. This emotional unavailability and melancholic expression is expressed with Blue Christmas. Blue Christmas is an occasion to remember and acknowledge the grief and extend support to the community. As Maya Angelou wrote, "I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel."
This article will explain Blue Christmas, its meaning and its symbolism with Longest Night of the Year.
What is the meaning of Blue Christmas?
Blue Christmas, also known as the longest night is denoted as a specific event or tradition. It is an alternative to traditional gatherings of Christmas to care for depressed or people going through difficult times during this holiday season.
The day acknowledges different emotions like sadness, grief, anxiety and isolation. It was first observed in 1990 to offer a solemn and reflective worship service. However, the campaign extended support to law enforcement personnel and honoured the memories of officers who lost their lives in the line of duty.
Blue Christmas 2023: Date, History, Significance, Observance, Facts & More
Why is Blue Christmas also known as the longest day of the year?
The name Blue Christmas is synonymous with the astronomical phenomenon of the winter solstice. This means that Blue Christmas, which usually falls on December 21 is the shortest day and longest night in the Northern Hemisphere ( opposite in Southern Hemisphere). Also, this transition of nature had become a metaphorical backdrop for emotional darkness.
Hence, winter solstice, the turning point for the season offers a powerful message of hope for people in despair. As the famous poet John Milton wrote, "No darkness is bottomless; deep within every dark lies a hidden spark."
What is the significance of Blue Christmas?
Blue Christmas is an important event to find hope and solace. It opens pathways to share feelings and reach out to people to provide much-needed support and understanding. The day prioritizes activities to bring out comfort and joy, surrendering to nature or simply spending time with oneself. Despite being the longest night of the year, Blue Christmas is a promise of a new day with bright light and shine.
Hence, Blue Christmas is an occasion to cherish the memory, the simple act of kindness, enchanting creative spirit and care for the source of inner light. It is a time to acknowledge the pain and sadness, to live through the difficult emotions and to seek moments of self-care. So, let’s make sure to make everyone feel understood, supported and hopeful this Blue Christmas.
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