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Happy Birthday

Please do not keel over from shock,
but I went to midnight mass last night.

My host sister, Diya, is dating a Christian and has befriended all of his friends so a bunch of us went with them to celebrate this holiday.

It was lovely.
Esther, the one who pulled us all together, sings in the choir. Though the sermon was a bit boring and over the top (God has NOT forgotten you, no matter what you think or what crisis in faith you've had!!!) the music was fabulous.

Christmas in India is a bit different than in the States, (no shocker there) On the one hand everyone knows about it but Diwali, the new year that happened awhile back, seems to garner all of the advertising budget for the year. Thus though there are decorations and lots of "Happy X-mas" signs, there does't seem to be a huge marketing campaign.

And so, devoid of the whole blitz, I felt for the first time able to comprehend the meaning of Christmas, while in a church, listening to choir music about a beautiful baby boy born in a manger. Birth really is a miracle, and should be celebrated often. Though I am not sure Jesus ever existed (and am okay with this lack of knowledge) I felt moved by the joy all the Christians around me had regarding the miracle of his birth. I was moved by the faith they shared that God will not forget them, even though I don't share their faith I could still appreciate it. This didn't stop me from nodding off during the boring bits though (it was a midnight mass after all).

Afterwards, everyone in their Sunday best greet each other with shouts of "Happy Christmas!" and exchanged kisses on the cheek as well as the occasionally hug. The whole thing seemed quite surreal, especially when afterwards we hung out with Esther's family and her father knew more about Tennessee country music than I did (where was Elvis born? I am sure it isn't wasn't IN Memphis). I think he works for an airline because he seems to have flown all over the U.S.

It is funny how know that school has ended I feel like I am really getting to know Indian culture. Last night, hanging out with the Christians, and then this weekend I am attending a knock out two-day wedding with my host family. Priya, my (youngest) host sister has offered to take me to a Hindi movie
(and provide translation) and frequently the family invites me into the kitchen to see how chapattis or chocolates are made (and to lick the bowl). Us girls frequently have late night talk sessions about Indian culture, family stuff and anything else that crosses our minds. On Tuesday night we stayed up until one, doing Henna hand designs and playing with make up in preparation for the wedding, the night before that was a fashion show to see which outfits should be worn for the big event.
I feel very fortunate to be here. What a gift!

I hope everyone had a wonderful solstice, is having a merry christmas a happy Chanukah and will usher in a marvelous new year.

Much Love,
Miriam

Posted by miriam holsinger on 12/25/03; 4:58:28 PM