The festive season is upon us, and as we prepare to celebrate Christmas and usher in the New Year, we wanted to share a heartfelt wish for joy and peace with all of you, borrowing a phrase from Shakespeare’s “As You Like It”:
“God rest you merry”
– William Shakespeare, As You Like It, Act V Scene I
A path in Soulton’s AS YOU LIKE IT WOOD, covered in snow
We extend warm greetings to each of you. As You Like It, Shakespeare’s most celebrated comedy, was inspired by the idyllic scenery of Soulton.:
Come hither, come hither, come hither:
Here shall he see No enemy
But winter and rough weather.– William Shakespeare, As You Like It, Act V Scene I
This timeless expression of good cheer perfectly captures the spirit of the season: a time for reflection, gratitude, and the simple pleasures of human connection.
Soulton Hall in the snow, seen from Base Court
Interestingly, “God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen” is one of the oldest Christmas carols, dating back to 16th-century England. While the earliest known printed edition wasn’t published until 1760, the carol has enjoyed enduring popularity throughout the centuries. It has been known by different names throughout history, including “God Bless You, Merry Gentlemen” and “God Rest Ye, Merry Christians,” and even makes a memorable appearance in Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol,” early on when Scrooge is terrifying carol singers with his foul temper.
May the warmth of the holiday season fill your homes with laughter and love. May the spirit of giving inspire acts of kindness and compassion. And may the coming year bring you an abundance of happiness, health, and success.
Wishing you all a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
