Easter is an ancient holiday. The word "Easter" comes from the Anglo-Saxon Eastre, goddess of spring. Early Christians celebrated Passover, just like the Jewish people, for some time after Christ. The development of Easter as a distinctly Christian holiday probably took place after the fall of the Roman Empire, when Christian missionaries traveled to Northern Europe. Celebration of the arrival of spring and fertility became associated with the rebirth of Jesus Christ, which is why Easter in many European cultures is associated with Easter eggs, rabbits, pastel colors, and baby animals.
Every year, the Pope delivers a message on Easter Sunday which is usually a call for peace. This year, Pope Benedict XVI did the honors, naming particular countries and his hopes that they resolve their troubles. If Easter is a time to celebrate rebirth and new starts, perhaps it is the day we should reflect, forgive, and try to see our neighbors in a positive light. We have a long way to go on this planet together, as it is everyone's home, and we need to work together to keep it green, fertile, and fair. They say that the main reason for the Arab Spring rebellion was rising food prices due to climate change around the world. Without food, without sustainable agriculture and a renewal of the land, all humankind will sink to barbarism. How can we smile at our neighbors with empty bellies, while theirs are full? How can a prosperous, well-watered nation exploit the poor, parched ones? And how can a handful of corporations monopolize agriculture around the world?
What will change this spring?
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