The Legend of the Candy Cane

 THE CANDY CANE LEGEND

The candy cane represents one of the oldest symbols of Christmas, the shepherd's crook.  The shepherds were among the first to experience that first Christmas.
The colors of the candy cane have special meaning, too.

The wide red stripe represents the sacrifice of Christ, For by his stripes we are healed." If your candy cane has a narrow red stripe, it represents our own sacrifices (giving). The white stripe is a symbol of purity.

The peppermint plant is a member of the hyssop family, referred to in the Old Testament as a medicinal herb used for cleansing.
As you eat your candy cane, you might want to break it, as Christ's body was broken for you, and share it with a friend, thus sharing in the sweetness of the true meaning of Christmas.

Jesus Gentle Shepherd,
This cane of red and white
Proclaims the sweet love story
Born on Christmas night.
This cane, you see, when turned around
Begins your name of Love
And now becomes a symbol
Of peace proclaimed above.
The lively peppermint flavor
Is the regal gift of spice.
The white is your purity
And the red your sacrifice.
And so this cane reminds us
Of just how much you care
And like your Christmas Gift
To us it's meant for all to share.
~ Author Unknown ~