With winter approaching, and the weather turning colder, our thoughts naturally shift toward the upcoming holiday season. It’s a time when many of us feel the pressure to balance countless tasks — such as shopping for gifts, decorating the Christmas tree, planning family gatherings, and organizing holiday dinners. In the midst of the busy holiday season, it’s easy to lose sight of what this season truly represents: an opportunity to spend time with loved ones, a time for reflection, and a chance to express gratitude for the blessings in our lives.
The holiday season also highlights the rich diversity of cultures and traditions that make our community unique.
Among these cherished traditions is Kwanzaa, a celebration of African heritage and culture observed from December 26 to January 1. Kwanzaa is celebrated by lighting candles on a kinara, a candleholder with seven candles, with each candle representing one of the seven principles of Kwanzaa: unity (umoja), self-determination (kujichagulia), collective work and responsibility (Ujima), cooperative economics (Ujamaa), purpose (nia), creativity (kuumba), and faith (Imani). The candles — three red, three green, and one black — are lit daily, symbolizing these guiding principles and the unity they inspire.
Another holiday celebrated throughout our community is Hanukkah, also known as the Festival of Lights. This Jewish holiday is celebrated over eight days and nights, beginning on the 25th of the Jewish month of Kislev, which typically falls between late November and early December. Hanukkah commemorates the resilience and perseverance of the Jewish people. A tradition of the holiday is the lighting of the menorah, a nine-branched candelabrum. The first candle, known as the “helper” or “shamash,” is used to light one additional candle each night, symbolizing the enduring light of hope and faith.
Christmas, observed on December 25, is a widely celebrated holiday that holds deep cultural and religious significance. Traditions such as decorating Christmas trees, singing carols, attending Christmas mass, and enjoying festive dinners with family and friends capture the essence of Christmas. It is a time characterized by joy and togetherness.
The holiday season is celebrated in countless ways across the globe, with each country embracing unique traditions. Despite these differences, the holidays universally reflect themes of togetherness, family, giving, gratitude and, most importantly, peace and joy.
As we embrace this season of celebration, it is equally important to prioritize safety, especially when travelling to visit loved ones. To ensure safe travels, plan your trip in advance by mapping out your travel routes. Make sure your vehicle is serviced before you depart, paying special attention to tire pressure and windshield wipers to avoid unforeseen issues. Always keep an emergency kit in your car that includes essentials such as a first aid kit, water, snacks, and a flashlight. If you are flying, always pack your valuables in your carry-on. These simple precautions can help ensure a safe and enjoyable journey during the holidays.
I wish you a safe and joyous holiday season.
