Hollywood, MD – To quote a familiar Broadway musical lyric—“it’s time to do a wretched thing or two.”* The song is about the month of May, which has finally arrived. The volatile weather months of March and April are over and now we get serious about spring.
May is named after Maia, the Greek goddess of fertility. While fertility is important to the continuation of mankind, in many cultures it is considered bad luck to get married in May.
The first day of May is called “May Day.” It’s the beginning of summer observances in the Northern Hemisphere. In England, the crowning of the May Queen and celebrations involving the May Pole take place.
Roman Catholics display their devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary with crowning ceremonies—crowns of flowers are placed on statues of the Blessed Mother.
In the late 19th century, socialists and communists designated May 1 as International Workers Day.
The May Day celebration in Moscow’s Red Square had been discontinued in 1991 after the Soviet Union was dissolved. However, the ceremony was revived in 2014.
May 1 is not only May Day, it’s also Law Day. In Hawaii May 1 is Lei Day. And if your boss gives you your check on the first of the month it’s also Pay Day.
While you may not have to buy a gift for anyone brave enough to get married in May, keep in mind Mothers’ Day is Sunday, May 14 and most colleges and universities will conduct commencement exercises.
The year 2017 is finally hitting its stride. Enjoy the month!
Lyrics by Alan Jay Lerner, Frederick Loewe*
Contact Marty Madden at marty.madden@thebaynet.com