“As one small candle may light a thousand, so the light here kindled has shown unto many”. -William Bradford
Happy National Light Appreciation Day! This day celebrates the summer solstice, or the longest day of the year, so be sure to go outside and celebrate! There are more than 17 hours of sunlight to help you soak up some vitamin D today, with the summer solstice which normally takes place between June 20th and June 22nd, and a gorgeous and rare Strawberry Moon appeared in the sky last night to help us.
Long before the official designation of National Light Day, the importance of light was highlighted here in Plymouth! The Wampanoag Tribe are known as the “People of the First Light,” and William Bradford’s now famous “One Small Candle” quote notes the importance of celebrating the light in our lives, and the need to illuminate the lives of those around us.
Coming together in solidarity to inspire ourselves and give back to our communities is highlighted in Plymouth 400’s “thanksgiving” theme, which we celebrate each November with “Illuminate Thanksgiving,” one of our Pre-Commemoration Events. Illuminate Thanksgiving honors Bradford’s quote and is designed to celebrate not just individuals, but global communities dedicated to illuminating our lives and the lives of others. It’s all about giving thanks and giving back.
This event will be held on November 19th both here in Plymouth and all around the world, and it gives communities a chance to come together and reflect upon the importance of gratitude and giving, and to celebrate those who truly make an impact on others’ lives. Plymouth 400 also honors one inspiring individual each year with the “One Small Candle Award.”
You can join in by downloading our Illuminate app on your phone, by liking us on Facebook, and by spreading the word to those around you! We hope that Illuminate Thanksgiving will become a tradition across the globe!
You can watch 2014’s Illuminate event here!
Did You Know?
According to folklore, marriages during a growing moon and a flowing tide are considered lucky!
Images courtesy of Almanac.com and The Mother Nature Network
Post by Billy Tringali
