Christmas 2008
October 4, 2010
Safiyah..
So here’s the deal: Half the family celebrates Christmas and the other half celebrates Eid. Safiyah and I both had our first experience going to Half Moon Bay to search for Christmas Trees on a beautiful and clear winter’s day surrounded by gorgeous Northern Californian hills. We enjoyed walking through the rows and columns of Fir and Pine trees of all shapes and sizes. The smell was gorgeous. It wasn’t a religious event for us (not that there’s anything wrong with that), but more so a family bonding experience that also serves as a cultural holiday. We went home to put up the tree and decorate it with ornaments that each held a story and memory of a relative or family friend. We ate chile quiles and drank hot tea and cocoa. It was something I had grown up watching on TV but never experienced on my own. Its interesting how things work out.
It’s important for us to see the intention behind the things we do (or don’t do). I once heard one of my sufi teachers stress the importance of taking part in special occasions for the happiness of our parents and families. Whether we believe in the religious significance of the holiday or not. My in-laws celebrate Eid with us as well.. and its just beautiful. So all in all. I don’t see any reason why we shouldn’t all enjoy all the holidays.
