What is it that fascinates us about lantern parades? The link with the past? Some mystical symbol? The gathering of many together in common purpose, huddling for warmth and protection again the spirits of the night? To process to a tree and to sing in the rain is a very unusual experience for children dependent of X-Box and TV, but hundreds of people turned out to do just this.The making of the lanterns is now part of the ritual. The soaking of willow, bending and fixing, stretching of paper and coating with glue: a modern process from an ancient craft. But how to light up the lantern and still be safe? Candles or battery lights? The living light of a burning flame is something wonderful that brings both danger and security, threatens and protects, frightens and excites. To make fire is an ancient skill, empowering and reassuring. The lighting of lanterns is a celebration not just of light but of the gift of fire. A thanksgiving.
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