Don’t forget the Mistletoe

Last year, as I was taking down my Christmas decorations, I realized I had forgotten to hang mistletoe over my doorway. As a matter of fact, I don’t remember seeing mistletoe in any of the homes I visited during the Christmas season.

If you do some research, you’ll find that since ancient times mistletoe has been considered to be a magical plant with mystical powers. The tradition of kissing under the mistletoe has been around since the 16th century. Through the years, the reason for the kiss has changed. Some felt it was an important ritual that would bring fertility to a newly married couple. It was also thought to bring peace between a feuding husband and wife. At one point, the idea was that if an unmarried couple kissed under the mistletoe, it would be considered a promise to marry.

I guess in the year 2011 we no longer believe that kissing under a piece of greenery is going to bring any kind of change to our lives. But, it does seem like a shame to let such a lovely tradition disappear. So, while you’re out shopping for your Christmas tree, holly, ivy, and poinsettias…don’t forget the mistletoe.