According to European legend, the ladybug is a symbol of good luck. They received their name centuries ago in Europe, when farmers found aphids invading their grapevines. Prayers to the Virgin Mary for help were answered when thousands of little red beetles appearead and ate the aphids. The farmers named the helpful beetles in honor of Mary, also known as "Our Lady."
An American legends has the pineapple a symobl of hositality. When colonial sea captains returned from their tropical voyages, they would take pineapples from their cargo and hang them on their front door or gate post as a sign of welcome and hospitality. Later, people began carving designs into doorways and gate posts. Pineapples are still given today as a symbol of welcome or friendship.
Legend has it that the rose oramaments on a Christmas tree are symbolic of beauty and are believed to be an expression of affection and love. Legend tell us that a lowly shepherdess knelt at the manger weeping because she has no gift to offer the newborn King. As her tears fell to earth, a rosebush sprang into bloom. She picked a bouquet of roses and offered them to the baby Jesus as her gift of love.
Also from Europe, comes the legend of the pine cone which symbolizes enternity. Because of ther abundance in the forest, they were often used as natural decorations. Later molds were developed by the early European glass blowers to produce them as a glass ornament.
Although not a legend, it still bears repeating. "Stille Nacht" (Silent Night) is the most beloved and widely known Christmas hymn in all the world. It has been translated into more languages than any other sacred Christmas song. Joseph Mohr wrote the verses and Franz X. Gruber conposed the music for this inspiring carol. The Silent Night Memoral Chapel in Oberndorf near Salzbur, Austria, was built on the altar site of St. Nicholas Church where "Silent Night" was first sung on Christmas Eve in 1818. Also, the first time "Silent Night was played, that long ago Christmas Eve, it was played on a guitar.
