The importance and beauty of history
Happy Monday! I had originally planned to show you Fiesta Regalia in the Sunday post, but as I sat down to write, it became more about the importance and beauty of history.
Warning…I am going to give you my opinion on some things happening in the world…that I do not consider to be political at all.
But, the current movement in my own country to delete the importance and beauty of history is very concerning to me.
I love history and took extra history courses in college…courses no longer deemed to be of value.
So, let’s walk through the importance of history by discussing this weekend’s coronation of King Charles, and with San Antonio’s celebration of Fiesta.
THE IMPORTANCE AND BEAUTY OF HISTORY: FIESTA 2023
I know that royalty can be controversial. However, let’s set the controversies aside and appreciate the beauty and the historical significance.
The importance of history is demonstrated in my own city with the Fiesta celebration.
Feast your eyes on a few of the gowns worn this year by members of the royal court. Many of the gowns are also part of a display in our Witte Museum.
They are truly works of art, and remind me of the robe placed on King Charles during the regalia ceremony…the fabulous gold one with pink roses.
Fiesta was first celebrated in 1891 to honor the heroes of the Alamo and the Battle of Jacinto.
It is a celebration of state history; city history; and fund raising for many non-profits throughout the city including vast scholarship funds.
Yes, it includes pomp & circumstance…appreciating this beauty and the art is important for us to pass down to everyone.
Each non-profit and service organization selects representatives for the royal court…they wear the amazing dresses.
The court is diverse and includes lovely ladies from all walks of life.
Every year, the gown designs follow a theme. This year it was the Magic of Morocco, with Moroccan inspired designs.
Some of the court selections are made from family history and involvement with Fiesta.
There are families living here directly related to those who fought in the battles and were key players in the founding of Texas.
As a born and bred Texan, that gives me state pride every time a wreath is laid before the Alamo during the Battle of Flowers Parade.
For those of us who live and raise children and grandchildren here, the importance of history with Fiesta is vital…or we will not fully appreciate the party.
During the parades, I witnessed large, diverse crowds standing together as the American Flag walked by and waving Texas flags.
The importance of history always includes patriotism.
THE IMPORTANCE AND BEAUTY OF HISTORY: THE CORONATION
I only watched a portion of the coronation, but was so taken with the importance and beauty of history.
The beauty was not only evident in clothing and robes, but also in music and ceremony.
It was reverent and patriotic for Great Britain.
I watched from the actual crowning of the King until they walked out on to the balcony and there were moments that stirred my sole and made me jealous of the unity of the thousands in attendance.
I appreciated the King and Queen’s desire to ride in that amazing gold state carriage.
It was first created in 1831, weighs 8000 pounds, and was reported to be a very bumpy, uncomfortable ride.
However, for that mile ride, they chose to celebrate the importance and beauty of history.
The carriage with the eight horses was truly fabulous and when they rode under signs which read, Happy & Glorious, I just had to smile.
This coronation was patriotic, diverse, artistic, and beautiful to watch and appreciate.
Well done.
THE IMPORTANCE AND BEAUTY OF HISTORY: IMPORTANCE
“There is no better teacher than history in determining the future. There are answers worth billions of dollars in a $30 history book.” – Charlie Munger.
Countries are destroyed by removing and changing history.
In America, as strong mature women, we must stand up for history to be taught to our youth…the good, the bad and the ugly.
Or we are doomed to repeat it. The lessons in each event are vast.
We must also teach artistic appreciation of the beauty in history, and not just jump on a bandwagon to attack what surrounds that beauty.
Fiesta is steeped in artistic talent…the coronation of the King was as well.
The role celebrations play in establishing patriotism of any country or state is also quite critical.
Appreciate the events… then if you want to listen to pundits rip them apart, it is your choice.
But beware of the future that attempts to erase the past.
That is what is on my heart today…I hope you enjoyed the dresses…let me know if you have your own thoughts about the importance and beauty of history…..and I will see you tomorrow!
KEEP SMILING!!
By Pamela Lutrell
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Oh Pam you must have been listening to my husband and I in regard to the coronation and history. We watched it because of its historical significance and to see how well the British conduct an event with great thought and planning. I loved the way the ceremony honoured past traditions and also added touches that reflected the new King’s desire to be a King for all of the British people. It was a significant historical event that showcased traditions and how to honour a new monarch. It was an important moment in history for the British people. History is very important to a nation and to the world. We learn from history and discover so much about the past and mankind. History is not always pleasant and it should truly reflect what has happened and not be tampered with. History was one of my favourite subjects at school and I get upset
when I hear about the decline in its significance in school curriculums.
Every day history is being made.
Thank you, Julie. I love to discover the beauty and traditions in history from all countries.
I too enjoy history and often research / “google” the history of events. I grew up near Mobile, Alabama, where Mardi Gras began. It is much like your Fiesta with elaborate gowns, beautiful floats, and numerous events. The gowns in your post are certainly gorgeous and represent, I think, a part of history that should not be diminished. The idea that we leave out parts of our history because they are not pleasant or do not support a particular political stance then, as often said, that history will repeat itself. I too was struck by the unity and joy of the crowd in London during the coronation events, and thought how such unity would be difficult in our country with so much division among our populace.
I was jealous of that patriotic unity and hope we see it return someday. But there are so many working hard to pull us apart, I do not know if it will happen. It was a joy to witness in London even as a living room participant!
Good morning Pamela, As a Canadian reader of your blog, I felt compelled to reply. You have addressed a timely topic and I thank you. I have a feeling this same conversation happened in many homes after witnessing King Charles coronation. It was full of pomp and ceremony and commitment to his nation and people and it was glorious! Celebrations lift the soul, and bind us together whether they are big or small. The Royal family engage in many British events to uplift these events and give them recognition and they do it well and selflessly. We can all do the same whether it be participating or planning family celebrations, community and church events to make our neighborhoods the best they can be. Instead of tearing down and erasing history and human relationships, let’s put our energy towards repairing what is harmful and building stronger. History gives us great lessons to change and fix what is wrong and to not repeat. Thank you for listening to your soul and responding to this current issue!
Agreed. The Coronation touched me Abd my heartstrings especially hearing how many of the practices date back to Charles’ early ancestors. And yes to the coach ride and the balcony and the words that he’s there to serve, not be served. Interesting I thought!
( wondered where these words were first came from)? And yes to your idea that all of our own country’s history should be taught- the good the bad and the ugly; I think that’s how you put it. I so agree!
I love your comment, Darlene. Thank you for encouraging all of us to celebrate family, community and church. No matter how small we can always make a difference and be a part of history in a positive way!
The words are from Mark 10:45 in the Bible, Paulette. The disciple encourages us to remember the Jesus came to serve and not be served and set that example for us. Much of the coronation ceremony was straight from the Bible.
Thank you for sharing these gorgeous gowns and also the history and tradition of Festival. I was a history major and taught high school history for a few years. I agree with everything you wrote. What a perfect quote from Marcus Garvey! I didn’t see the coronation (we don’t have broadcast TV) but I read about it and saw the photos. Love to see how tradition is revered and the joy of our British friends.
Thank you for your thoughts! Very well stated!
Well said. I am appalled, and frightened, by attempts to rewrite, or erase history. Sometimes I am so glad that I am as old as I am(69)!!! Iykyk!!
Love that you taught history, Kathie. Thank you for sharing
Thank you, Suzy!
It frightens me most for grandchildren.
All you said is true. Where have traditions gone in this country? So many are quick to denigrate and mock tradition, and yet they have nothing to replace them. History is erased, politics are forums for anger and hatred, religions are attacked, books are banned, and holidays have become excuses for shopping instead of family celebrations. It is frightening that young people have little to fall back on, and no compass to guide them.
Your Fiesta art is a beautiful and welcome delight!
All you said is correct, Susan. And great reason for concern.
Pamela, thank you for such a thoughtful and insightful post. First of all the gowns are incredible, the beauty and artistry is amazing. I never knew about Fiesta, what a lovely tradition. Also talking about history , you are right we do need to embrace it, not erase it. Learn from history. Our country has been going thru such stress for too long. I was born and raised and still live in California, and as I grow older I understand we do have a different slant sometimes on events. I know the vast majority of Americans, are good people, they care about family, friends and those in need. We see too much negativity. Thank You for always showing life can be uplifting and positive……..
The gowns were gorgeous! I bet beautiful in person with the details.
I agree with what you said about history. We can’t ignore or erase it. It did happen! We should use it and learn from it! I did enjoy watching the coronation and it was nice to see the people celebrate together. I’m sure they have their problems in England but again they have a very rich history that should not be forgotten!
We all have problems…the key is to work through them together with respect and love. Thanks Paula.
You are welcome, Nancy.
Thank you for underlining the importance of history — good, bad and ugly.
It is so important.
Thank you for speaking out about the importance of preserving our history. We cannot pretend that the past was perfect. We must learn from the mistakes made by past generations and current ones! I was struck by the amount of Christian themed ceremony that was part of the coronation. It was refreshing to see. I am afraid that would never be allowed here. It makes me sad for our nation but we are not to give up hope. Thank you for sharing your thoughts.
We must never give up hope!
We must learn from the past to build a brighter future. We cannot do that by ignoring or sweeping the parts that we don’t like under the rug. The “changing” of history & the banning of books is very scary to me. Our beautiful country has bruises & scars, as does every country. We must learn to work together & respect one another, or we are doomed to failure. Thank you for sharing the history of your Fiesta & the beautiful gowns. There should always be a place for beauty in our lives.
I agree, Becky. I am aware some schools ban Bibles, and I know and agree with some books being held out for preschool and elementary children. Other than that I am not sure what books are being banned. Will watch for it.
What a wonderful post, Pamela! Fiesta must be even more beautiful in person than your photos show — how beautiful those dresses are!!! I watched most of the coronation and found it so interesting! The topic of erasing/ignoring/removing history is very important to me. Our country has had terrible and ugly moments, but also uplifting and proud ones as well. If the dark times make people uncomfortable, well that is good. We are made stronger by learning from our mistakes. It’s not to focus on the bad, but to move ahead even better!
Yes! Here’s to moving ahead even better!
Those gowns are astonishingly beautiful. What a tremendous labor of love to create those! Regarding history and traditions, as a former E.S.L. teacher, I remember very well how many grateful families were truly thankful and filled with joy to be here in the U.S.A., away from all the reasons they left their home countries. Are we a perfect country? No. But we are for many the next best thing: a place of welcome for all who come legally, and a land of opportunity beyond measure. If that isn’t worthy of celebrating, then I don’t know what is.
I love to read and hear the history of families who came here legally and fell for this land of opportunity! They can have the most inspiring stories within their own families!
I started to participate early this morning but was distracted by company. I agree with so many of the astute comments, so it would be redundant to repeat them. If only we, as a people, nationally as well as globally, could focus on what is best for our future generations and realize that we all have more in common rather than in differences. We are all imperfect, and not everyone has the same viewpoints, but we broaden our minds and attitudes by embracing those flaws and exploring differing points of view. Thank you and your readers for the thoughtful blog and comments. I loved your historical references of your fiesta to the coronation.
Thank you for circling back, Deborah. Always love to hear from you!
You can’t see me, but I’m clapping!!! Wonderful words and SO important.
I love the pomp, circumstance, and pageantry of the various royal events but this was the most fascinating and awe-inducing of all!
All I know to say is ‘Thank You’ for your sincere and truthful comments about our need for history.
I was at a party this weekend talking with somone bemoaning the task of cleaning out my Mother’s house last summer during her move. She remarked that her parents were Holocaust suriviors and their papers were going to the Holocaust Museum. They want to preserve all evidence of the Holocaust, so it will not be forgotten or erased.
I have sympathy for those who want to eliminate mention of such events in school lessons because it will make their children feel bad, but I think that these events can be taught to all ages in an appropriate way and that the reasoning hides other objectives. I’ll add Mark Twain – History doesn’t repeat itself, but it often rhymes.