Learning Things

 

ifelong learning is a goal Lifelong learning is a goal we all hope for — at least I do.

I’m always happy to find that I can learn something at the ripe young age of 73.

Recently, I watched an episode of Max Miller’s Tasting History on Christmas feasts, most notably the Boar’s Head Feast (after which the carol was created.)

In this episode, he points out that almost every Christmas convention we adhere to comes from the middle ages (some before, some after, of course) - the Christmas tree, the feasts, caroling, music, etc., and…

The word “Christmas”, for instance. Its origin in the medieval texts is Christes Maesse or “Christ’s Mass” (Latin, of course – remember almost everything in Europe in the middle ages is Catholic. Very.)

That’s interesting and, it seems kind of obvious — and kind of odd that it’s not something that registered with me for 73 years, give or take.

The other interesting point is the abbreviation: Xmas. To some people (including my Mom), the abbreviation is an abomination and they are highly indignant if they receive a card that says ‘XMas’.

Yet, as Max points out, the letter ‘X’ was associated with the cross from very early days and the abbreviation was used in medieval texts quite regularly.

It’s highly correct usage!

Mom may be turning over in her grave, but it’s true!