GOOD THINKING: 'HOODIE HOO' TO YOU!

The shortest month of the year is now with us. February, "februarius," means "to purify" or "to come clean." In days of ancient Rome, February was the 12th month of the year. It was natural for people to "get their house in order," "to clean up their act" in preparation for the coming New Year.

Although only 28, sometimes 29, days in length, February gives us lots of reasons to celebrate!

Candlemas or Ground Hog Day ushers in the month on Feb. 2. An unknown poet wrote:

"If Candlemas Day be dry and fair,

The half o' winter's to come and mair;

If Candlemas Day be wet and foul,

The half o' winter's gone at Yule."

On Candlemas Day, Mr. Groundhog has become our official "winter predictor." If he sees his shadow, we'll see six more weeks of winter; if not, spring will soon arrive. Either way, our hearts are lifted; spring will soon be here. Celebrate!

We honor three great men in February. On Feb. 12, we honor Abraham Lincoln. His name stands for courage and freedom. St. Valentine's Day is Feb. 14. Valentine reminds us of forgiveness and redeeming love. On Feb. 22, we honor George Washington. Here was a man of integrity and great vision. Celebrate!

Feb. 20 is Hoodie Hoo Day! This day is set aside to help us chase away the winter blahs, by going outside at noon and yelling "Hoodie Hoo!" Celebrate!

On the more serious side, Feb. 28 is Ash Wednesday, the beginning of the season of Lent. Just 40 days until Easter. A time for us to remember the sacrifice Jesus made for us, how Jesus suffered and died on the cross for your sins and mine. Then rose triumphant over the forces of sin and death! Celebrate!

And there is more! February offers us the opportunity to celebrate:

American Heart Month; Black History Month; Canned Food Month; Creative Romance Month; International Embroidery Month; National Snack Food Month; National Wild Bird Feeding Month; Responsible Pet Owners Month; and Tightwad Living Month.

So, say a cheer for February! Or, at least, a Hoodie Hoo! And don't forget to celebrate something every day of this month!

Dr. Kuehle is a retired United Methodist minister.