The Confessions of a Yuletide Rebel

Christmas is such a multifaceted occasion that holds diverse significance for different individuals. For many, it’s a time for gift exchanges, indulging in special treats, reconnecting with loved ones, and creating cherished moments with family.

Lately, it’s evolved into a season centred on the idea of ‘me and mine’ (a very annoying bunch of people..lol).

For me, it doesn’t fit into any of these boxes. I’ve never quite felt the anticipated excitement or warmth that others associate with the holiday season.

Growing up within the confines of a conservative household, our ‘Christmas celebrations’ were remarkably different. There were no bustling visits to friends or relatives, no travels, no flurry of new clothes for the festive period nor Christmas trees, things that seemed customary for other children.

In that context, Christmas appeared more routine than extraordinary. It blended into the regular flow of life without the fanfare or heightened anticipation that often accompanies the season for others.

I remember school resumption in January typically had the first class exercise to be that we ‘write a composition about how you spent your last holiday’. I spent it in bed ma. I spent it doing the same things I did throughout last year.

I think initially, it felt like I was missing out on the fun. Every child would feel that way. But soon enough, this feeling fizzled out. It became quite a normal day for me. It began to feel like a weekend, a Saturday to be specific.

One interesting Christmas I do always remember was when some neighbourhood kids came to visit. I remember thinking to myself ‘Is your house biting you?’. Lol! I was barely out of Primary school, and I knew for a fact I didn’t entirely get the butterflies. Or maybe I just did not have a reason to look forward to it YET. I remember that it felt so awkward having people come around because “It’s Christmas”. But why come around though? Is your house biting you?

Experiences indeed serve as the lens through which we perceive life.  I remember my favourite movie growing up being the classic Christmas movie “Home Alone”. Ah! The irony!

In this film, young Kevin McCallister is inadvertently left behind during the holiday season which he spends defending his home from a pair of robbers. It’s a scenario that sparks a humorous comparison – except in my case, being left out during Christmas won’t be accidental; it’s more of an expectation, albeit a light-hearted and intentional one!

In this movie, Kevin, the youngest son, is left behind, though unintentionally, because of the chaos that follows his family as they rush to the airport to catch their flight to Paris for the holidays. If they had just stayed in their home, poor Kevin would not have had to teach the two thieves a lesson or two, because really, was their house biting them?

As the years passed, my perception of Christmas evolved (just a little, to be fair). It became more than a day to sleep. Instead of feeling out of place or even indifferent, I began to appreciate the quietness of the day.

While others revelled in the hustle and bustle, I found solace in the peaceful moments. It became my time for introspection, a pause in the chaos of life. Eventually, I realised that my Christmas, though different, held its own charm. I didn’t need the grandeur or the traditions. I found joy in the simplicity of the day, in the small moments of reflection and gratitude.

Now, as an adult, I embrace my unique Christmas experience. I might not have extravagant celebrations, but I’ve found my own way to mark the day. It’s become less about what others do and more about what it means to me—a day of quiet joy, reflection, and appreciation for the simple things in life and the whole essence of celebrating the birth of a saviour.