THE YEAR END

The SIX days between Xmas and New Years doesn’t have a name but it’s a very busy time in much of the World nonetheless. The day after Christmas in the British Commonwealth is Boxing Day, which has nothing to do with fighting but is the day many businesses back when boxed up food and drinks to give to their employees in the 19th century. Today the boxes have evolved into vacations and bonuses for many people. In the US it’s a day for exchanging or returning gift items that were the wrong fit etc. It’s also a time for family parties & vacations for many people. Most people leave their Xmas decorations up until after the New Year. More than half the world’s people doesn’t celebrate Christmas but almost everyone celebrates the Western New Year. A new tradition starts the New Year along many coast lines and lakes; the Polar Plunge with millions plunging into icy waters in bathing suits. Millions of others watch and enjoy the show vicariously dressed warmly with a cup of hot coffee or an alcoholic beverage. On the evening of 12/31 billions gather to celebrate the arrival of the New Year some in huge crowds near iconic buildings, parks and streets like Times Square in New York City. There a brilliantly lit ball falls during the last minute of the year and fireworks light up the sky Worldwide as the New Year sweeps across the globe!!