As the curtains of 2023 draw to a close, the anticipation of Christmas hangs in the air like tinsel on a tree. In the spirit of festive fellowship, let's take a sleigh ride down memory lane and unwrap the gift of our favorite Christmas memories.
For me, Christmas isn't just a date on the calendar; it's a magical blend of love, laughter, and the occasional fruitcake that seems to defy the laws of physics. One cannot reminisce about Christmas without summoning the delightful chaos of family gatherings. Imagine a group trying to sing Christmas carols together, but it ends up sounding like a joyful chaos rather than a coordinated melody. Aunts and uncles engaged in spirited debates over the ideal way to roast chicken, and the usual search for that elusive roll of wrapping paper that somehow disappears every year.
One of my cherished memories takes me back to the fragrance of spices filling the air as my grandmother (may her soul rest in peace) turned our kitchen into a festive hub. The aroma, as rich as the most flavorful Ghanaian dish, lingered in the air. Every mouthful of her homemade kelewele (spicy fried plantains) felt like a comforting embrace, leaving behind a sprinkle of joy that lingered even after the last bite was devoured.
Of course, Christmas isn't complete without the obligatory church service, where even the most stoic of uncles couldn't resist a toe-tapping rendition of "Jingle Bells." And let's not overlook the charming choir, where my cousin's unique contribution, perhaps a drumbeat or a lively dance move, unintentionally steals the spotlight, adding bursts of laughter to our joyful carols.
Well, in the spirit of full disclosure, there was that one year when our family decided to try a "creative" approach to decorating the Christmas tree. The result? A tree that looked like it had survived a tinsel tornado. Needless to say, it became part of our Christmas tradition — the 'Asante Evergreen,' as we affectionately named it.
In our busy lives, Christmas is a powerful reminder to take a break, enjoy the closeness of family, and cherish the happy times together. Whether it's the playful look in a cousin's eye during a lively choir performance or the comforting smell of a grandmother's delicious cooking, these memories weave love and tradition into the fabric of our lives.
In wrapping up, let's enjoy the special moments of this Christmas beyond just exchanging gifts. The real magic is found in the laughter at family gatherings, the songs we sing together in a crowded church, and even in the unique traditions like our 'Asante Evergreen.' Each memory is like a precious decoration on the tree of life, adding to the overall joy of the holiday season. May the enchanting spirit of Christmas keep creating memories that stay with us well after the decorations are put away and the festive lights fade.
Written with memories and anticipation,
Willy.