In the deep midwinter

But perhaps it is hard for you to understand.

You now live in a time of perpetual plenty. And anyone with the means may eat and drink whatever he wants, whenever he wants.

Imagine, if you can, what life was like not more than a handful of generations ago.

A celebration in the middle of winter? Feasting on whatever you could afford, with no promise of anything to come but the hungry months before spring? Why, that is indeed an act of faith!

To hang the tree with lights and fruits and garlands is to remember what it is to be human. At a time of year when the other animals are fighting among themselves for food and shelter, human beings show generosity and a belief that tomorrow will be better.



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