by Haylie Lomar
As the holiday weekend
wrapped up many people begin putting the ideas of the Easter Bunny out of their
minds. Have you ever wondered why a bunny? Why is Santa more believable to
watch us? First off the Easter Bunny comes from the classic definition of a rabbit,
or hare bringing fertility and new life. As winter wraps up and we jump into
spring, it is no surprise that a bunny makes sense, new flowers, school is out
soon, and the days are getting longer to fill. However, it seems that young
children do not fear the Easter Bunny as they do Santa, it’s simply easier to
see an old man with the help of elves to travel the world and deliver presents
to every good child. How does a bunny hop all over to deliver eggs, and fill
baskets? Also, we forget the bunny the day after, whereas we never forget Santa
and anticipate the next year, and are reminded he is watching us from
Thanksgiving to Christmas Day. After all if we misbehave before Easter what bad
does the Easter Bunny bring rotten eggs, or carrot sticks? Something about
Santa’s coal seems more intimidating.
The tradition of the Easter Bunny bringing eggs dates
back to the 1500 and 1600’s. Eggs are also a symbol of new life, so the timing
of Spring couldn’t be more impeccable. Traditionally the Easter Bunny story
included laying eggs in gardens, followed by nest, and bonnets and baskets left
by people. Through the years the traditions have changed and turned into
leaving chocolates and candies along with the eggs for children to hunt and
enjoy on the holiday. No matter what the Easter Bunny and Santa will be
different, but how we see the initial story of a mythical creature bringing
treats to the good children of the world never changes.