the spirit of easter

Easter has arrived once again, and I have to wonder where has this last year gone? It also makes me wonder about this time, Easter. We all know that Easter is celebrated as the resurrection of Christ, taking its timing from pagan Spring festivals. But what about those of us in the Southern Hemisphere where Easter coincides not with Spring but with the advent of Autumn? The whole 'new life' metaphor is a bit lost on us down here. So, if chocolate isn't really your thing and Christ's resurrection is a story you don't believe in, what then, would Easter mean for you?

For some people Easter is a lovely chance to have four days off work and get lots of odd jobs done around the house in preparation for Winter (or Summer - depending where you are). The leaves are definitely starting to change colour around here so instead of welcoming the 'new life' we are saying goodbye to summer and hello to beautiful autumn. So, yes in the garden there are lots of things that could be done this weekend. There is also the fact that here in Canberra the change in seasons is so distinct, so it is an especially beautiful time to be outdoors, with cooler days and the gorgeous colours of the turning trees.

As it is also the end of the nice weather a lot of people (from Canberra in particular) head off to the coast to soak up the last few rays before the cold weather sets in. Four days is more than enough time to get away and have a 'mini break' as Bridget Jones would say.

I guess what I'm trying to get at is that there are plenty of things to do with the free 'time' that is given to us around Easter, but is there something else, something spiritual we can do, even if we're not religious? In our house we did attend Easter mass but there are many who don't. And I'm not saying that we're more spiritually aware than others simply because we did go to Mass, certainly not. What I am trying to say (rather ineloquently I'm afraid) is has the spirit of Easter touched you this year? We have also been lucky to enjoy delicious meals with both friends and family (and seeing more friends again today).

Have you met with friends and family and enjoyed a nice meal?
Have you slowed down and given consideration to the changing of the seasons, the concept of things dying (or in the garden going into winter hibernation) and the joy of knowing that in a few months they will be coming back to life?
Have you recognised the value of life? How important it is to tell people that you love them, to forgive past hurts and to look forward to the future with a heart and soul unburdened by hate, anger and fear?
Have you hunted for easter eggs in the garden and enjoyed little kids laughing and giggling and tripping over gumboots as they followed big footprints through the still damp grass?
Have you told someone that you love them?
Maybe, maybe not.



But instead of just looking at Easter as an annual long weekend, why not spend some time reflecting on the things that really matter. Just a suggestion. It won't change the world, but imagine if everyone did this, regardless of their religious beliefs. Imagine if everyone recognised this opportunity to look at each other in a new light, as brothers and sisters, as all doing our bit to make this world a good one. I think it could be pretty powerful. The spirit of Easter should be about forgiveness, not punishment, about hope not fear. About love. And hope, love and forgiveness are three things that our world could surely use at the moment. So why not start at home?

Whatever you have done this Easter, and whatever you may believe, I wish you all a very Happy Easter!