It's Nearly Christmas

Lucca, Italy

Godshill (Isle of Wight), England

Malaga, Spain

Santa Fe, New Mexico USA

Brittany, France

As I travel, I don't usually seek out religious buildings unless I'm with a tour group or traveling with a friend who is interested in doing so. Mostly, at this stage in my life, I appreciate this type of place for its historical and cultural connections to a setting rather than its spirituality. It wasn't always so-I began as a Christian, drifted into Zen Buddhism, and presently profess no ties to any religion though I respect the religious beliefs of others as long as they do not try to force their beliefs upon me. The photos in this post came from a variety of places, their common theme is their ties to Christianity.

This theme was prompted by my reaction to the nearness of the celebration of Christmas. For the last few days it has been difficult to go anywhere without hearing Christmas carols. I enjoy the melodies, but am also a bit taken back by the fact that, even though I have not been a active Christian for many years, the melodies trigger the lyrics and then the memories of my childhood and turning into a young adult. I experience these memories and reflect that, while I have grown in different ways, both the carols and the thoughts behind them have been a part of my culture. A person's culture helps one define oneself.

It has taken me years to arrive at this acceptance. What used to be an important part of my spirituality is now a part of my cultural past. Notice that I didn't say that it was "just" part of my cultural past, that would not have given it the weight that is due. When I hear those songs in their various settings or visit a building related to religion, I can appreciate them for what they are from a cultural and historic point of view.

Travel should be a learning experience, in addition to an experience full of fun and adventure. I understand that if I avoid a part of a culture because it either makes me uncomfortable or is not part of my present culture, I am missing part of the total picture of a place. These thoughts are all tied into the songs I have recently heard in light of the celebration of Christmas. Music is, indeed, a powerful cultural element.

Thank you for visiting, please feel free to stop by again. In the meantime, may your travel be interesting and enjoyable.

Kerry

p.s.

I am just a few days away from exploring a place new to me. At the end of the month, I will travel southward to Florida and will spend the month of January there. I'm looking forward to new experiences that I'll be able to share with you..