Christmas is that time of year when the world seems to pause. Well, kind of. The most celebrated holiday in the world, a season meant for laughter and connection is finally here. This is the season of big meals, bigger plans and even bigger surprises.
So, what’s on the menu? For many across Africa a goat must die, or a bull, or whatever’s lucky. Nyama choma hapa na pale roasted to perfection, filling the house with the smell of celebration. In Italy, tables overflow with seven types of fish. In Mexico, neighbors join processions singing Las Posadas while in other parts of the world turkeys, hams and endless sides dominate the dining table. Ducks, Ostriches, camels….you get the drift eh? That it is all about the food. Different continents, different dishes. But the food – the food is universal, bringing us together.
Then there are those who will not focus on the food at all. Christmas for them is about special moments with family. Sharing stories, opening gifts and simply being in the same room with loved ones can feel magical. It’s the laughter and the shiny eyes with tears threatening to overflow. Tears of joy, because every joke is inhouse and special and brings all the nolstagia. Me? I fall in this category. As the years go by, I have come to understand that family is everything and that tomorrow may never come. I have lost too many people that meant the world to me to understand the latter perfectly. From friends that I did everything with that we now do not see eye to eye with, to lovers that I once thought we would grow old together….and probably die together (ha! the naivety, I know…) So yes, this is also the perfect time to gather my thoughts, reflect and meditate.
And, of course, there are the others. The ones who will drink till they pass out (sherehe ni sheria after all, and whomst am I to argue against such wisdom?) clinking glasses, singing off key and dancing like nobody is watching. Their version of Christmas might not be Instagram perfect, but it is full of life and memories that are unforgettable (even if blurry lol).
Across the globe, these little differences of big meals, tender moments and wild nights are exactly what make Christmas universal. It is the spirit of connection, joy and generosity that matters most. Gifts, feasts, music, laughter, even the chaos all remind us that we are part of something larger than ourselves.
Remember, Christmas is about coming together in whatever way feels right. From Nairobi to New York, from small villages to big cities, the magic is the same: unity, joy and a little bit of chaos. And honestly, that is exactly how it should be. Vile inafaa.
