A symbol only exists as long as the people give it meaning. A symbol can be very powerful, but can also loose meaning if the people dishonor or ignore it. Another way we use symbols are in celebrations. Symbols used in celebrations often convey the beliefs of an individual or group. Celebration symbols also reflect what is important to an individual or group.
Some symbols can have different meanings to different groups.
For example, the Christmas tree is a symbol of peace and Christ to people in England, but it was a symbol of eternal life to the Romans because of the evergreen branches. Winter is a season that has many celebrations and symbols for many people. Santa Claus is the most widely known American gift giver for celebrating Christmas. However, before the gift givers were developed, gifts were exchanged at the winter solstice festivals to celebrate the new season. These winter celebrations included gifts of holly, ivy, and mistletoe as gifts of peace.