Christmas
>> Thursday, November 6, 2008
Come December and Christians start preparations for the secular cultural festival of Christmas / Christmastide observed on the 25th of December to commemorate the birth of Jesus Christ – the Son of God, the Redeemer of humanity. Cities are illuminated with decorative lights, shops are opened till late nights and are packed with customers asking for decorative plastic or paper items, 'Christmas Trees' whether real or imitation Conifer trees. People embellish the trees with electric lights, and Christmas ornaments. Christmas Carols can be heard hither and tither by groups of people. Christmas Party are planned well in advance. People go to Christmas Parties either in hotels, clubs and resorts or the personal parties thrown by their friends or relatives. Feasting involves boozing, eating, singing, dancing and merry making.
A gala Celebration of Christmas is done to honor the nativity of Jesus Christ. Modern customs have incorporated gift giving, church celebrations, display of various decorations like mistletoe, nativity images, and Santa Claus. Santa Claus, The Christmas Father, is endeared by children especially, as it is believed that He brings gifts for us. According to the Christian Mythology, Santa Claus is originated from the syncretization between St. Nicholas of Myra and elements from Pagan Nordic. Santa Claus has been embodied as personification of Christmas. A long beard old man from North Pole with red cloak and bag of gifts is believed to come on a one horse open sledge through sky at Christmas. Children fancies that during night he comes and bestows the gifts on their beds.
Christmas is a time of frolic and experiencing the charisma of festivities. It is synonymous to enjoying at heart. Christmas activities also include going shopping, hanging out with friends, celebration with family members. A complete break off from the monotonous daily regime. Children are seen engrossed in decorating the Christmas trees with colors, shimmers, ribbons, streamers etc. Christmas stories found in Bible are listened to with much enjoyment.
Gourmets or no gourmets, Christmas celebrations are a treat for the tantalizing taste buds. From Thanksgiving’s turkey to Christmas’ plum pudding, holiday food is relished by all. Christmas cookies, gingerbread, eggnog, cheese log and apple cider are few other savories. These redolent delectable Christmas Foods are prepared with much passion to enjoy the feast together with everyone.
The English Speaking countries observe “Boxing Day”, the day following the Christmas Day. Dating back to 800 years there was custom initiated by the churches of opening the “Alms' Boxes' and give the money to the needy poor in the neighborhood. The tradition still continues by giving gifts to the delivery workers (Postmen) and children delivering newspapers.
What are your plans for Christmas this Year? Do anything and everything to make the festival a carnival of jubilation.
Swati Saxena
