So that was Christmas 2011
December 27th, 2011
Christmas is a strange time of year.
Church on Sunday
For the most part I love Christmas. For me it it’s about few days to chill-out with family; eat lots of chocolate, have a few drinks, hang out with my awesome cousins, a nice meal (stuffing!), refuse to wear paper hats, argue with my parents about going to church one day a year “because it’s what we do at Christmas”, give awesome presents to the ones I love, get some awesome presents (but giving awesome presents is better). Yet it is never about a Jewish philosopher, a fat man in a red suit, or a skinny man in a green suit, nor the commercial bullshit which surround it.
I debated whether or not to go to church with my parents. In the end I went. It’s a boring ritualistic affair with drab music in between the monotonic voice of the man at the pulpit coming out from the speakers dotted between the congregation. A larger congregation than usual; the hypocrisy is far from subtle.
Back at home the question comes again: “Why don’t you like religion?” There are many answers. I have my reasons. But mostly, when I get involved in a conversation like that I realise the fundamental questions that someone of faith has. It helps challenge me and rehearse other angles. Most importantly, it’s enjoyable to have a wee debate and express my own feelings. However, insignificant church is to my Christmas, it is a standard part of my parents’ Christmas, and a part of what their family does.
Giving of the gifts
In our house we don’t wake up to presents. We’re older now and there is no need for that sort of thing, so we’re told. It’s a formal affair that has lost its fun.
Christmas Dinner
Ah yes, the one time of the year where the adults spent hours in the kitchen preparing a feast beyond all proportions as though Jesus himself were to join us at the table. In fact, it’s just the four of us and we’re forced to eat under-cooked Brussels sprouts, watered-down gravy, under-cooked potatoes, turkey, carrots and no stuffing because Dad forgot it.
The fight after dinner
After dinner we sit in front of the TV with a beer and hope that there isn’t too much fighting about what we’re watching. Some chance.
Lets just get through the night together. Forget about everything going on. Put on the façade that we’re all okay.
Boxing Day
This is Christmas for me. Hang out with my cousins and get merry. This year was sponsored by the antics of 7 year-old Ethan.
And now I pack up my things from the room with the single bed.
Until next year.
