Easter Brings About A True Sense Of Renewal

By Timothy Kuzma

I have always considered this time of year to be the start of the New Year. I know January 1st is the “official” start of a new year, but it just seems to me that the Easter and Spring seasons are much more symbolic of the spirit of renewal and rebirth than a cold, frosty day in January.

The traditions and customs of the Polish people are a beautiful reminder of the joy of life and of our place in our family and community. In the book, “Song, Dance, and Customs of Peasant Poland,” author Sula Benet offers a wonderful summary of this season, “All the holidays of springtime centre around the theme of resurrection, the symbol of life conquering cold death. Easter, the most important holiday of this most important season, is also the most important holiday of the whole year. Its ceremonies are longer, more solemn and more elaborate even than those of Christmas. Throughout the land, in cities as well as in the rural areas, no holiday is more eagerly awaited, none celebrated more joyously or with richer pageantry.”

From the Shrovetide festivities, through the long days of Lenten fasting, to the solemn services of Holy Week, the preparing and blessing of Easter food, the Resurrection Mass, and the fun and revelry of Dyngus Day, all the celebrations remind us that there is always a new opportunity for change and rebirth. That from the cold and dark days of winter will come a rebirth of the Earth, and if we pay attention, to a rebirth of our own spirit. When you think about it, this is perfect time of year to make resolutions for the year as we celebrate the newness all around us.

If you have never done any Polish Easter traditions, maybe this is the year to start. Pick one, just one, and make it a part of your Easter tradition. Next year, add another. Before you know it, you’ll be taking classes on how to decorate Easter eggs. Traditions and customs are an important part of defining who we are. Keeping these traditions alive is important, not only for the sake of keeping the memories alive, but for reminding us of who we are and from where we came.

No matter how you celebrate your Easter, use our beloved Polish traditions to renew your mind, body and spirit.