By looking at a calendar, however, I did observe references to the days of Hanukkah that are brightened by lighting candles.
The 31 days of the 10th month on the Roman calendar became so well established that it was retained as December, the 12th month of our present calendar.
In the northern hemisphere, we observe the winter solstice on the 21st. We observe Christmas on the 25th.
The 21st of 2010 was the 63rd anniversary of marriage in my household. To cynics who would have us believe that the institution of marriage is on the rocks, my spouse and I say bah-humbug. Likewise for those who are negative about the American dream, we have a similar message.
The terminal issue of U.S. News and World Report specified 50 ways to improve our lives in 2011. That highlights the power of positive thinking.
Seasonal lights and New Year’s Day celebrations will brighten our paths as we memorialize December and seize Jan. 1, 2011, as a day of renewed opportunity.
Lest I forget, it’s still better “to light a candle than to curse the darkness.”
John A. Vanderford
Jacksonville
