Mistletoe wasn’t always for kissing – it all started long ago with the Scandinavians. They considered mistletoe to be a plant of peace. If enemies happened to pass under the plant, they would have to lay down their arms and call a truce for at least a full day. Gradually, over the years, this custom gave way to the kissing tradition that just never seems to get old.
Washington Irving added a footnote in his “Christmas Eve” passage. It explains the mistletoe is to be hung up in the kitchen. Young men have the privilege of kissing the girls under it – but they must pluck a berry off each time. When the berries are gone – the kiss fest is over. He did not mention that eating the berries will probably end the kissing too – they’re poisonous.
No comments:
Post a Comment
Post your Wisdom