Gatherings, Traditions, and the Heart of Christmas

Christmas is my favorite holiday. Every year, I decorate the tree with ornaments while enjoying eggnog and festive music—simple moments that bring me so much joy. As I place each ornament on the branches, my mind goes back to my childhood, to a place that felt like something out of Little House on the Prairie. It was a time when family traveled from far away, and our celebrations overflowed with different kinds of food. The streets were alive with parades, carnivals, and the wonderful aromas of street vendors. Afterward, we played games, attended church, and later watched fireworks together—beautiful memories I still treasure. I didn’t see a Christmas tree until I came to America, since trees were not common where I’m from. I also think back to the Christmases I spent in the United States with my parents, brothers, sisters, nieces, and nephews. The celebration was similar, just without the carnivals. Instead, we gathered as a family, shared all kinds of food, went to church together, and created our own private traditions with our church community. Those years are filled with memories that still warm my heart. Christmas with my in-laws feels familiar but a little different—more gifts, more drinks, and a stronger focus on decorations. Yet at the core, both families value the same thing: gathering together and making memories. Christmas with my own family is always special. I give the best of myself to make sure we have good food, thoughtful gifts, wine, laughter, and a cozy home. I absolutely love decorating the inside of my house for Christmas—it matters so much to me. The outside decorations, though, I keep simple, because what truly matters to me is the warmth inside my home. As for the meaning of Christmas to me? It’s love, family, faith, and the small moments that become lifelong memories. It’s the joy of gathering, the comfort of tradition, and the reminder to appreciate the people who make life bright.