Dec 25, 2023 | by Daniel Giamario |
Seasonal and Sacred Greetings at this turning point of the year!
With the Gemini Moon wildly Out-of-Bounds and approaching the Galactic Edge, and Mercury retrograde at the Galactic Center, the Turning of The Ages Mystery School wishes for an expanded connection to Heart, Soul and Spirit at this time of the Sun/Son’s rebirth. Though our astronomical focus is the December Solstice, we honor all festivals at this time, whether secular or religious: Yule, Hanukkah, Christmas, both Catholic and Orthodox, Kwanzaa, New Year’s Day, and Saturnalia.
Traditional German “Räuchermännchen”, image by Naraya
I am offering a selection of my favorite songs at Christmas Time. Being a ThreeWorldsSchool, some of these songs are quite different from the usual religious carols, with two exceptions, including a recommendation from Naraya. The first ones have been my favorites for years.
Happy Xmas (War is Over), John Lennon and the Plastic Ono Band, 1971
This has always been my number one favorite.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g_kj60DIq2M
Fairytale of New York, The Pogues, 1988
Often voted the number one Christmas song in the UK; and again this year, probably because of the recent death of Shane McGowan.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j9jbdgZidu8 official video
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6s8lvnSmISc from Shane’s funeral
Father Christmas, The Kinks, 1977
Featuring Ray Davies’ unique blend of sardonic heart.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i2X0JzlO8SM&t=3s
The Chipmunks Christmas Song (Christmas Don’t Be Late), 1959
To truly date myself, this novelty song was number one when I was 11 years old and I still can’t get it out of my head!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3rnPHlOHb7g
Happy Birthday Jesus, Kirtana, 1993
This was shared by Naraya and beautifully captures the heart and sentiment of Christmas.
https://youtu.be/das9aqr9irM?feature=shared
When it comes to more traditionally known carols, I have always had one clear favorite: We Three Kings of Orient Are or The Quest of the Magi, for obvious reasons! Written originally in 1857, there are hundreds of versions, but here is quite a good rendition by my Dad’s favorite singer: Mario Lanza
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UnYOzRMrxaE
I offer these suggestions in the hope that they may bring you enjoyment, heartfulness and some real authentic sentiment.