Today in the U.S. many will celebrate the secular holiday called “Thanksgiving.” It originated as a harvest festival, and the pervasive imagery has been inspired by legends about Calvinist separatist Pilgrims who emigrated in 1620 from The Netherlands to the “New World.” These staunchly Christian folks supposedly included, now and again, select nearby indigenous pagans in their festivities. However, the interactions between the European immigrants and the Native Americans were often not mutually advantageous, as virulent pathogens were unknowingly brought to North America by the colonists, which, in many situations, devastated the local populaces. Thanksgiving has evolved into an occasion […]
Pastoral Symphony
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From our garden here at The Black House—pictured is the thriving smoke tree planted in tribute to Magister Joe Netherworld—we offer Solstice greetings to all in harmony with the Earth’s seasonal changes! In the Northern Hemisphere we embrace the longest day of the year as sultry Summer begins. Those in the Southern Hemisphere mark the longest night as Winter begins its gelid dominion. Wherever on this wondrous planet you might be, it is always a delight to celebrate the glories of nature and the abundant pleasures that life offers! Here’s to a splendid new season filled with indulgences galore! Beethoven‘s […]