The Lesson of Boxing Day!

Today is Boxing Day! And what is that? Well, it is celebrated in England the day after Christmas, which is St. Stephen's Day. The name "Boxing Day" is derived from the custom of giving a "Christmas Box" to someone in need, either money or something helpful. The box was originally a receptacle into which the money or item was placed. It could be wood or clay, if clay sometimes shaped into a sphere, with a slit at the top (piggy bank?!). The gift was for the poor, or a gratuity of sorts to someone that provided a service, not a gift from equals.

The tradition goes way back, but by the 18th Century, people were complaining about the amounts that were considered the appropriate. There's always a Scrooge in our midst!

Another interesting take on the Christmas box, was that on the tallships, a box was provided by a priest while the ship was in port, it became a kind of good luck charm, where sailors hoping to ensure their returning home, would occasionally put money in the box. The box was stored safely shipboard, and if the ship returned successfully, then the money was given to the priest in exchange for a mass of thanksgiving, and the priest then distributed the monies to the poor.

Of course the lyrics of "Good King Wenceslas" sum it all up. It tells the story of the King and his Page on the Feast of Stephen. The King spots a poor man gathering fire wood, and heading home. The King drags the Page along through the snow to the man's humble home, bringing an offering. Their cold and arduous journey bring a blessing not only for the man, but for themselves:


Therefore, Christian men, be sure
Wealth or rank possessing
Ye who now will bless the poor
Shall yourselves find blessing!

How true! So, remember to do an unexpected kindness this day, and count yourselves blessed!