Growing up Jordan: when you don't exactly believe in Christmas
My husband and I aren't religious. We believe in a supreme being, but we are not devout Christians or churchgoers. Those of you who have been on this journey with us know by now that I grew up as a Jehovah's Witness. My mom, my aunt and some of my cousins still are devout Witnesses. I was never baptized, but I still occasionally attend Kingdom Hall (especially when I go home).
It'll, therefore, come as no surprise to you that I am not a fan of Christmas. I grew up learning and being reminded of the pagan origins of this popular holiday. I've spent most of my life not celebrating or barely acknowledging the season.
What of my husband? Well, he thinks, "It's the most wonderful time of the year!"
No joke. My husband loves EVERYTHING Christmas. The decorations, the carols, the family gatherings, the food, Babsy's cooking (my mom-in-law), the baking, the excitement, did I mention the food? He is like a kid in a candy store during the season.
Until this year, I’ve mostly gotten away with being the grinch of Christmas. I never do gifts. I don't do decorations and a Christmas tree is a hell nah!!! This year, I budged a little. I didn't buy a tree, but I got laser lights for outside. For Jordan, this has been super exciting. Every night she begs to go outside and dances up a storm to the lights.
At 2 years old, Jordan is now understanding the holiday and she's caught up in the excitement of it, fueled on by her daddy of course. This year, we attended her first Christmas school concert. It was an awesome production. The costumes and children were all just so amazing, even the ones who stood still... like my Jordan.
There's only one word to describe how it feels to watch Jordan perform at a Christmas concert and to listen to her gleefully sing Christmas songs:
Conflicted.
Well, actually there are more. There is also a tinge of betrayal and guilt. It's as if I am betraying my mother and throwing away all the values and beliefs which shaped much of my existence. However, a part of me is happy that Jordan is having these experiences. It's almost as if I get to relive some missing parts of my childhood.
The excited squeals from Jordan every time she passes a decorated building, the way her face lights up at Christmas trees and the way she prances around to upbeat Christmas jingles are delightful to witness.
I'm glad that I am still, for the most part, a bystander as it's my mom-in-love who brings all the excitement of Christmas. Every year she visits, I understand just a bit more why my husband grew up loving Christmas. Pagan holiday aside. It’s family. It’s love. It's togetherness. It all warms my heart.
Conversation starters
Word of the week:
overshadow
/əʊvəˈʃadəʊ/
Verb
1. Tower above and cast a shadow over.
2.appear more prominent or important than.
What to say when you are not selected as employee of the year.
"When that guy [insert name] is dominating you, it is not easy to emerge from his shadow"
Yohan on his career during the years with Bolt.
The story
Yohan Blake recently did an interview with the Times of India and among other things, he shared how he really feels about being overshadowed by Bolt during his career.
"If you took Bolt out of the picture, I would be the world’s fastest man. I was born the wrong time"
Oh no, he didn't?!
Oh yes, he did.
So, how has Bolt responded?
By teasing us with the promise to release a new dancehall rhythm called.... drum roll…
Come on Yohan! Quite frankly, Bolt overshadowed everyone who raced with him. He is a legend. They come only once in a lifetime. The good thing is he brought out the best in almost everyone who competed with him. As Tanya Lee mentioned in her Gleaner article, most athletes clocked their best times competing against Bolt.
Here's the good news: Bolt has retired so now is your opportunity to emerge from his shadow. 2020 Olympics is your time to shine…hun.
What are we celebrating?
Jamaica is Miss World!!!
Yaaas!
Congratulations to 23-year-old Toni-Ann Singh who is now the fourth Jamaican to win the title.
If you are wondering, she beat 111 other contestants!
We likkle but we tallawah!
How do we really feel about her winning? Just ask Miss Nigeria, Nyekachi Douglas, whose reaction went viral but truly sums up how we all feel. Takes notes Yohan. Here is an example of how not to be bitter.
And boy, Toni-Ann, thank God for that save after that unfortunate Annie Palmer fiasco at Miss Universe. I'll say no more.
Fun fact: For the first time, Miss USA, Miss Teen USA, Miss America, Miss Universe and Miss World are all black women at the same time. #BlackMagic
What to read?
As we come to the close of another year, almost everyone is in reflection mode. For some of you, 2019 may be a winning year, for others, like me, it’s been meh. If you are at that place where you just don’t know what direction to take or where to go, then go to Tami's page and click the link in her bio for a free download of her first book, Honour the Valley. It's a quick read and its very relatable. At the very least, it will help you to understand that your lows are necessary next steps in getting you to the next peak.
Sorry guys, I didn't get around to watching any YouTube videos this week, but I'll make up for that next week. In the meantime, please send me your favourites.
Until next week! Walk good my loves!
I love reading your Blogs , keep up the great work. I have always wanted to write as well and i am inspired by you. Thank you!
The eye roll was on point! (Bless teacher Miss and the Little miss). On the Christmas thing … just saying … your recognition of family, fun and the higher power are all it takes. Happy 2020 too.
Thanks for always sharing your honest and candid view point…. Jordie has an amazing mom, willing to put aside rooted beliefs to support her little girl’s joy & development. ??
Thank you Marv!!!
Another well written article. Thanks for sharing Little Miss with us. That eye roll though?.
Enjoy the fun part of Christmas, the family, food, music and fun. In my head it’s end of year FUN.
Walk good in 2020
I like end of year fun, yes!
This really was a good article, and I enjoy watching Jordy, she is a character by herself. I really can relate because my son is four years old and he is really super excited about Christmas. Even though they say it’s a pagan holiday, I love the sentiments behind it. Spending time with family and friends, even if that’s the only time we put our differences aside and the food. Thank you for this and continue writing.
Thank you Ruby. I will try to keep writing into the New Year!
I can’t remember telling you that when I read your blogs, I hear your voice in my head —even the little chuckles–. I’m with Garfield, it’s the most wonderful time of the year – the happy feeling and the togetherness of family…oh so peaceful. For years now the kids take on the decorating and this year, we will all be cooking up a storm. They are growing up fast and we are making memories. When Jordy is older, she will understand both views on the season and take her position… Carol service, tree lighting ceremony…more memories waiting in store for you. Talk soon, love you.
LOL! I love that you are reading this in my voice! Yes, that’s exactly what I’ve told myself. She’ll make the final call on what to do when she gets older.
Alwasy, Always Always an awesome read. Nuff things you write bout me never even read bout before. Thanks for the entertainment and information shared and your interesting life stories included❤??
You’re welcome and thank you for taking the time to comment!
Great read.love seeing Jordy enjoy the holidays
Always a good read and can relate. For me Christmas is a time of giving and spending quality time with family. My daughter loves the decorating and also gets excited whenever and wherever she sees beautiful lights.
We threw out our tree this year so no decorating and she totally understands.
Quality time with family is what’s it’s all about! Thank you for sharing!
Always a great read.
Thank you so much!