by Rosalind N. Li
Being a Chinoy, I observe many traditions that have been passed down. Of course, these traditions have evolved from one generation to the next, depending on one’s lifestyle and personal circumstances. In this article, I am going to share a few of my favourite Christmas traditions.
Family Reunions
Attending my family’s get-togethers had become my tradition for the past 15 years. I still look forward to going back to my hometown in Cebu to see my mom, my siblings and their families. Because everyone is so busy with their lives, these trips are usually short, but sweet, and everyone in my family makes an effort to be present during this time of year. Since it is so rare for my family to all be together, our favourite activity is to have lunch and dinner together. It is a real treat for my mom to see her family complete. When everybody is already full, someone would ask, “Anybody for desserts?” or “Anybody wants to go for coffee?” My heart is always heavy, when our visit comes to an end and I pack my bags because I know I will have to wait until next Christmas before I can see them all again. That is why I keep telling my kids, if someday, life should take them to a different place, they should always make an effort to see their parents like I do.
Food and Fellowships
Christmas you might say, is the season of eating and feasting. So many invitations begin pouring in left and right that there is no way I can fit them all into my toxic schedule but, with all those tempting dishes, how could I refuse? My problem is that I can’t refuse and that’s why I can’t fit into my body hugging clothes anymore! You know, “dieting” is a taboo word during this season! Do I dare mention all the extra expenses that all of these parties add to my tight budget? Despite all of this, Christmas parties are always very exciting, with the annual heart-stopping raffle and all of my favourite traditional party games. But it is during these times that we strip ourselves of the things that divide us — no departments, no positions and no differences. All are of one heart to just enjoy the moment and each other’s presence as one family.
Gift-giving
I believe that there is no better time to show our appreciation than during Christmas time. It has been my tradition to give gifts to people around me as a show of appreciation. It can be a stress buying gifts for all the people on my list because I have a limited set budget. It can be really challenging, not because I don’t want to buy expensive stuff, I simply can’t afford it. So I just have fun shopping until my heart is content until everyone on my list gets something within in my budget.
I sometimes give gifts in the form of “AngPao”, which is the coveted red envelope that contains money. The monetary content doesn’t have to be big. What matters is the well-wishes that come with it. This Chinese tradition is believed to bestow more happiness and blessings to the receiver. Although this tradition is supposed to be done during Chinese New Year, Chinoys like me give this kind of gift during Christmas, especially when I am busy and don’t have time to shop.
Conclusion
Friends, my Christmas traditions may not be the same as yours. Christmas should mean more than the social gatherings, shopping and material gifts. What’s important is being in the presence of families and friends, and having fellowship with the Lord Jesus who is the reason for the season. Start your own meaningful Christmas traditions this year!
