Happy 94th, Finland!

a reposting from four years ago, just read 94th:
twoCandlesforFinland.jpg

In honour of Finland’s 90th Independence Day (Itsenäisyys Päivä) today, I have lit these two candles in a window, as is the custom there. “Why two candles? Well, one is for home, the other is for country. This silent custom, handed down from generation to generation, could be described as Finland’s greatest popular movement, with a message that everyone can subscribe to.”

For me, personally, the two candles also represent my roots in two countries, Finland and Canada.

This 90th Anniversary year is a special one that has been celebrated all year leading up to December 6th. Though a holiday, it’s traditionally a serious day in Finland, but some lighthearted chuckles can be enjoyed over the symbols for Finnishness that these nine foreigners and naturalized Finns offer.

I also appreciated the historical perspective of Finland written by another Finnish emigrant who lives just south of us, in Seattle.

Hyvää Itsenäisyyspäivää to Finland and my Finnish readers!
(Note: have removed certain links that have since gone dead…)

December 6, 2011 in Finland, Estonia & Finno-Ugric by Marja-Leena