Enkutatash

Melkam Addis Amet! (Happy New Year) That's right, it's a new year in Ethiopia today.  "Enkutatash" signifies the new year and means  the "gift of jewels." It is representative of the time period when the Queen of Sheeba returned to Ethiopia from her expensive visit to King Solomon in Jerusalem, as she was adorned with beautiful jewels. The date also traditionally marks the abrupt end of the rainy season in Ethiopia.

We are blessed to live in a city that celebrates Ethiopian holidays, and we are trying to soak it up while we are here. DC held an Ethiopian new year event on Sunday with food, music and dancing on our National Mall near the Washington Monument. We had a great time playing, jammin' to the Rasta music, and making new Ethiopian friends.

It's fascinating that our Ethiopian friends maintain the Julian calendar, which is approximately 8 years behind our (Gregorian) calendar...making today the beginning of 2005 there!  Meskerem (September) 1st marks the first day of the year in Ethiopia, which translates to September 11th in the States. Kind of ironic, don't you think? While one country celebrates newness and the excitement that brings, another country (along with the world) remembers the tragedy of a horrific event on this very day 11 years ago. Today, our family grieves with the rest of the nation, remembers the fallen, and celebrates freedom...all while remaining grateful for new beginnings.