When I was 15, I talked to Mom about the idea of downsizing our Xmas celebrations as she was not enjoying the many pressures of the season… So we all agreed to just have the ritual of meeting for a simple dinner, anytime we can be together for the Christmas holidays. Gone were the presents, décor and big fancy meal but it still had the heart of the Christmas spirit.
This year, I was lucky to experience several heartwarming gatherings with friends and of course, with my Mom and Grandma. (grandma turns 92 this year!) Thanks to Paul and Kathy for hosting the party on Friday and to Maze and Jules for the one on Sunday! There was so much food, music and dancing at both parties, and of course the Love!
Christmas in Hawaii
Years ago, I decided to go to Hawaii during the Christmas holidays. I enjoy traveling alone, and I didn’t mind being "alone" at Christmas. On the flight over to Honolulu, I sat next to a Hawaiian woman who was returning home after skiing in Whistler. Even though I was not attached to the holiday season, I had a vision of celebrating with a local family, amidst a loving atmosphere. When we got off the plane, she invited me to spend Christmas Eve with her family!
Nestled on a mountain top overlooking the ocean, we ate a delicious traditional turkey dinner, sat around the tree, exchanged gifts, shared stories and the little grandchild sang a Hawaiian folk song to close the night. Wow, it had definitely been a while since I’d experienced a traditional Christmas so it was magical.
Traditions are not meant to bind us, but to offer us sacred rituals that we can imbue with our love. Of course, breaking tradition can be enlightening as we practice opening the heart and mind to other ways of honoring the things we cherish.
Love & hugs,
little woo
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