New Worlds of Body, Mind & Spirit Since 1901
| Color of the day: Gold
Incense of the day: Clove November 5 is Guy Fawkes' Day in Britain. Some may ask: Why do people across the world still gather around bonfires to burn effigies and watch fireworks in order to celebrate the discovery of Fawkes' Gunpowder Plot to blow up the Houses of Parliament on this date in 1605? The answer: Freedom. In the early days of the United States, the celebration was called by the alternative name "Pope's Day," referring to the fact that it blew a hole in British Catholics' plot to gain greater religious freedom. Some writers believe that these celebrations of freedom brought together American protestors and paved the way for the War of Independence. In fact, some of our founding fathers, including General George Washington, were considered "Enemies of the Bonfire." Now that Britain is our ally, standing beside us in the battle against terrorism, it makes sense to reclaim this as day to celebrate freedom from the fear created by terrorists. This is true no matter what religious beliefs might be driving their cause, but we can also pause today to ask for religious freedom that is more rational. On this night, coming just before election day, light a fire-whether it be bonfire, hearth-flame, or candle-and ask: May all of our leaders be guided toward a world that honors the spirit in everyone, and accepts any differences in people's beliefs, lifestyles, and cultures. May no one religion seek to oppress others, whether it be by terrorism or by dictatorship. So mote it be. |
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