One of the great things about Guyana is how unified it is about its festivals and cultural activities. Christmas is something celebrated by everyone regardless of race, class, creed, religion or whatever differences one comes up with. Everyone has their time of decorating, buying toys for the kids and man, cooking. Christmas Eve night was always filled with the sound of preparation with the new window blinds going up, the smell of pepper pot, curry, cook-up and fruit cake being made was intoxicating. Everyone celebrated. As soon as the season started, in the affluent areas there was the race to see which house would have the biggest and often most bizarre Christmas decoration. In the cities would be the masquerade bands with the young and old men flouncing to the kettle drums and fifes, dressed in Vaudevillian outfits. Occasionally one would see the tall Mother Sally dancing along with the Mad Cow occasionally dashing into the crowds making the kids scream with both fear and glee.
I was home last Christmas time and even though it was not on Christmas day, I was still relieved to see that despite all the nasty politics, all the racial tensions, all the stuff that would make one think that Guyana is going nowhere, it was good to see that Christmast, despite all the fluff and stuff, really hasn't changed. This brings to mind the very essence and message of the holiday -- hope, peace and joy to all mankind. This must be maintained as in our hearts still reside one place called home which for me is Guyana. Whether or not you're in Guyana, lets reminisce and celebrate this wonderful time called Christmas.
From my family to yours,
Merry Christmas and
Happy New Year!
Iain
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