LOH 266 // It's Christmas time

Even though there are many holidays that are celebrated this time of year, With so many celebrations happening around the same time, each carrying its own meaning and rhythms, it’s natural to wonder what it feels like to step into a tradition that isn’t your own. Meanwhile, Christmas is not a holiday I grew up celebrating in my own home—but I have experienced it through someone else’s tradition, and it turned out to be one of the most memorable holiday experiences I’ve ever had.

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I happened to celebrated my first Christmas with a friend’s family a few years ago when I was still in college. Since it wasn’t part of my own upbringing, I went into the experience with a mixture of curiosity and uncertainty so because of this, I have to lied to my parents that I have some project I have to finish before leaving the in other for me to enjoy the festive with them.

I had seen Christmas from the outside many for so many times, the decorations in stores, carols on the radio, lights on houses, but participating in it directly was something very different.

When we get to their house my friend’s family welcomed me with such warmth that any hesitation disappeared almost immediately, I forgot about the tradition and joined the fun of the festive. The house smelled so well like the Santa was around with soft music playing in the background. Looking at the Christmas tree that was beautifully decorated, full of ornaments that each seemed to tell its own family story. Is really amazing.

Before dinner, they invited me to join their tradition of sharing a small reflection about the past year. I was touched by how open everyone was so we share our stories, speaking about challenges, hopes, and gratitude we felt over the year. It wasn’t the spectacle I had always imagined Christmas to be, it was intimate.

Everybody exchanged small gifts with others after the meal, and although I hadn’t expected to receive anything because I was not part of them initially, they had thoughtfully prepared something for me since they have been informed that I will join them. That gesture meant more than the gift itself. It made me feel included, not as an observer or a stranger but as part of the celebration. I realized then that, for their family, Christmas is less about the material aspects and more about creating a sense of love, connection, and belonging.

I was more surprised of how meaningful the traditions felt even though they weren’t part of my religious background. I found myself appreciating the symbolism, the emphasis on light in the darkness, hope in difficult times, and generosity toward others. Even the simple act of gathering around the tree brought a sense of unity I hadn’t expected.

Celebrating Christmas with my friend’s family didn’t make the holiday that boring, but it allowed me to understand it in a deeper, more personal way. And the experience has made me more open and curious about other traditions I haven’t yet explored. If the opportunity arose, I would gladly celebrate another holiday outside my own background because sharing in someone else’s customs can broaden your understanding of them and of yourself.

In a season filled with so many different forms of light, I’m grateful I had the chance to experience one more. Merry Christmas in advance everyone.

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