Dear tutuors and friends, If you by any chance visit Bulgaria on the first day of March you are certain to notice almost every person decorated with small tokens made from red and white woollen threads. March 1st is known as the "Baba Marta" Day in Bulgaria – so, on the very March 1st, as well as the days following, all people give each other red-and-white tokens in the form of strips, often ornamented, known by the name Martenitsas. Generally, the Martenitsa is believed to preserve the person wearing it from any bad luck or illnesses.
The legend connects the tradition with the foundation of the Bulgarian country long, long ago, in the
year 681 AD. Once we have had our Martenitsas pinned on our clothing or tied around our wrists (it is usually the right wrist we are supposed to put the Martenitsa on), we have to keep them there until we see some sign of spring - such as a stork or swallow, or a blossoming tree. Only after seeing that sign,do we remove the Martenitsas, as only then we know for sure that spring has truly arrived. After seeing one of the signs, we are supposed to tie our Martenitsas on a fruit tree, and make a good wish, which is believed to always come true.
Enjoy the feast of spring with your red-and-white tokens – the wonderful Martenisas! Let health, joy and happiness be always with you!
My love,
Zlatka
Dear Zlatka ,
ReplyDeleteI can see that Spring is celebrated in different countries , each people do it their way ! It has been a busy week for us , here , in Algeria with the celebration of the prophet Muhamed birthday ( 26th Feb ) . We lit all sorts of candles and did prayers . Today is the first day of spring . The weather is so nice and everybody is out sharing that traditional bread filled with dates .
May your Martenitsas bring good luck to all our teachers community !
Best regards ,
Farah ,
Dear Farah,
ReplyDeleteThank you. Obviously spring is a good ocassion to celebrate. Good luck to you, your family and all yout students.
Regards,
Zlatka