Reconnecting with loved ones
Grace Wickremasinghe, 21 is making waves as a writer, poet and youngest to be short listed for the Grateain prize. This week she looks back at what this festive season truly means to her and shares her own unique way of celebrating.
One of my earliest memories of Christmas would be attending a Christmas party when I was around three years old. I remember getting a toy iron from Santa after a dancing competition which was a kid’s game at the party.
Since it’s a common holiday for everyone I end up catching up with old friends around this time as well, and of course seasonal shopping with all the sales.That’s when I know Christmas is around the corner.It’s the music, promotions and events that really start in November which denote that Christmas is near.
I’m a Buddhist so I don’t really have any Christmas activities at home but I do meet my friends and family who celebrate Christmas and there are Christmas related events like plays and charities that I attend. Although we don’t celebrate it at home, I’ve gone for Christmas events with my parents and reconnect with our relations, family, friends and all who are visiting from abroad.
One of my more recent, favourite Christmas memories was when I flew to Greece last year with my mom on Christmas eve for the World’s University Debating Championship representing Sri Lanka. I would say that has to be one of my favourite memories.
As an adult I’m glad that my perception of Christmas hasn’t changed. For me, Christmas has always been about surrounding yourself with the people you love, enjoying good food and getting involved with events and projects.
Since recently, my girls and I go out on Christmas eve, which we have been doing for the past few years that’s a very nice tradition I’d like to maintain. This year I’ll be acting in a seasonal play called the ‘Garage Show’ on Dec16 and 17. I’ll also be reconnecting with my friends from abroad and will most likely attend a few family functions. I might actually act as mother Mary for my university Carol Service though I can’t sing!
My favourite thing about Christmas is the food!Actually that’s my second favourite thing. What I love most is how everyone makes more of an effort to be with their family and friends around this time and it’s wonderful to reconnect and spend more time with those who are dear to me.
This time of the year is one where everyone deserves to be happy. It’s very easy to feel lonely around the holidays especially if you’re away from your loved ones. Even if you are – I feel it’s still best to make the most of it with what you have and whom you have with you.
