Christmas

Today, I rolled out of bed, feeling a bit sleepy but ready to tackle the day. Following my usual routine, I took a quick, cold shower, dressed up in a lively outfit and headed out. The morning was chilly and serene, with quiet streets and a lack of usual sounds—no birds singing, fewer cars honking, and no hurried footsteps rushing to catch the bus for work. Blame it on the festive season; it had the city in a bit of a hush.

At the bus stop, I waited for a bus that seemed to be taking its sweet time. Eventually, an empty one pulled up, a bit unusual for 6:30 a.m. Usually, buses are packed at this hour. I got on, and after a few minutes, the bus filled up with a mix of scents-cheap and not-so-cheap perfumes, a bit of sweat, and a touch of dust. The air became a bit confusing for my nose, not to mention the burst of colors inside that could puzzle even a chameleon. The journey to Nairobi Central Business District started, and I quickly realized it wasn’t going to be a smooth ride. My seatmate, an elderly man in rather unkempt clothes, had a mouth odor that defied explanation, making strange sounds as if battling with mucus. It was a bit of a rough thirty minutes, but surprisingly, it didn’t dampen my Christmas spirit.

I’m not one to go crazy over Christmas, but this time, I’m oddly excited. Maybe because, for once, I’ll spend the entire Christmas, Boxing Day, and New Year wherever I fancy—maybe at home, any of my mother’s houses, or even some nice but not expensive spot, definitely not at work. Speaking of work, all my past independent Christmases were spent on the job, and I have to admit, it wasn’t thrilling. Imagine working while others enjoy their last bites of chicken or sips of cold coke or Singleton whiskey. We all have to work hard to earn a living, right?

Enough about me; what about your Christmas plans? I recall my campus buddy, Jojo. She was a sweetheart-polite, soft-spoken, and caring. She was  short, very light, almost radiant, and just beautifully light. Jojo loved Christmas and would start counting down the days to the next one right after 26th December at midnight. She believed Christmas is the birthday of Christ. Bible readers, is it really?

Now, let’s imagine Christmas in our African setting-a time when the air carries the lively beat of traditional drums and the aroma of delicious local dishes. Picture vibrant markets adorned with colorful fabrics and bustling with people eager to find the perfect gifts for their loved ones. In this festive season, communities come together in a dance of unity, sharing laughter, stories, and the joy that Christmas brings.

In our African Christmas, imagine children playing in the red African soil, their laughter echoing through the air as they create handmade decorations from natural materials. Families gather under the shade of age-old baobab trees, sharing meals prepared with love and care, featuring local delicacies that make the occasion uniquely African.

As we approach this special time, let’s not forget the spirit of Ubuntu-the essence of togetherness and shared humanity. In our diverse cultures and traditions, Christmas becomes a wonderful clothe knitted with the threads of unity, respect, and appreciation for one another.

So, what’s Christmas like for you in our African setup? Do you wish it lasted longer, or is a short visit enough? Is it just another day on the calendar, or does it bring a unique flavor? Why all the joy? I’m not complaining; in fact, I like it. The communal countdown, the excitement—it’s a day worth celebrating. As we gear up for the festivities, let’s have some fun. Invite everyone you can think of, visit all the places you want to, have those crazy yet fulfilling reunions. And to Jesus Christ, if you’re listening, happy early birthday! How many candles will be on the cake this year?

@okelododdychitchats