THE MISTLETOE.—From very ancient times, this plant has been regarded with curious veneration. Probably it gained special fame, in the first instance, owing to the peculiar manner in which it grew. The Druids looked upon it as a plant possessing marvelous properties, and they esteemed nothing in the world more sacred than it. They gathered it when the moon was just six days old because the moon was then thought to be at its greatest power. This done, they sacrificed two young bullocks which were milk-white. After that, the mistletoe was cut into small pieces with the aid of a golden hook or bill and distributed among the people present. These took it home and suspended it in a prominent place to ward off evil spirits. From these associations, the mistletoe has become an emblem under which young people may kiss, without any evil coming to them through their act.
HOLLY is used as a Christmas decoration because the Romans chose it to hang in their houses on the fast in honor of Saturn. Friends gave bunches of it to those whom they wished to endow with luck and happiness, probably because the prickly leaves symbolized the crown of thorns worn by Christ and the red berries the blood of the cross.
BIRTHDAY FLOWERS
Just as there are birth stones, so there are flowers which stand for each month of the year. By wearing the blossom named for your month, you may count on good fortune as the result.
JANUARY.—The Snowdrop which is the emblem of purity, hope and gentleness.
FEBRUARY.—The Violet, the emblem of modesty, kindness and faith.
MARCH.—The Daffodil, the emblem of daintiness, sincerity and graciousness.
APRIL.—The Primrose, the emblem of lovers.
MAY.—The White Lily, the emblem of purity and sweetness.