two candles for Finland
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!
Posted by Marja-Leena on December 6, 2007 12:01 AM
Comments
Hyvää itsenäisyyspäivää myös sinulle, Marja-Leena. Nostakaamme yhdessä malja Suomelle, tulevaisuudelle ja vapaudelle!
Posted by: Viides rooli | 00:34 06 December 2007
Hyvää itsenäisyyspäivää!
Posted by: Anna Amnell | 02:36 06 December 2007
Congratulations to the 90th Independence Day of Finland - and many happy returns!
Posted by: Olivia Kroth | 05:49 06 December 2007
Thank you, all. I feel a little odd being the recipient of these wishes, not being a citizen of Finland. It's Finland's birthday, not mine, but how nice to be included in the all the good wishes.
Posted by: marja-leena | 08:26 06 December 2007
Just wanted to stop by and thank you for all the prayers and support, but then I found these wonderful photographs of light and shadow. What balm to the spirit!
Posted by: patry | 11:43 09 December 2007
Patry, how delighted I am to have you visit! You have been in my thoughts so I hope this means you are feeling much better!
Posted by: marja-leena | 23:49 09 December 2007