-
December 24, 2020Mbungoni Family Christmas- 2020
On December 19th, I hosted a Christmas gathering for the boys in my hood (Mbungoni) along with those of us who support them. I have been planning this since I was home in September, so I was able to get some great deals on gifts, so I filled a suitcase with preparations for Christmas. I have been most excited in the anticipation for the celebration, because not one of these boys have ever had a Christmas before. A decorated Christmas tree and house, receiving a new gift that is even wrapped and the variety of foods are all foreign. My excitement was that of the days when my kids were small and so full of anticipation.
Each boy was given a duty to perform as a family member’s responsibility, not just as a guest. They receive it with joy, I love the respect youth hold for adults. Jackson was assigned to place a Santa hat on each guest’s head. One year ago, he was so shy and quiet, but now is full of life and smiles. Abdalla poured the gallons of pineapple, cranberry and lime juice concoction. We sat around facing one another, eating snacks and talking. Abdalla did all the last-minute food preparations and arranged them on the buffet. I then began our prayer of thanksgiving and invited anyone who wished to give what they are thankful for and what they hope for. It was beautiful, each and every one gave heart felt praise and prayers, not common in this macho man culture. I am happy and proud to day that we are shaping these boys to become good men.
We then ate and ate and ate some more. Zakayo and Jackson washed all the dishes as Abdalla and Shuku put everything back in place. We all gathered again for cake and ice cream and nominated Shuku as Santa to hand out gifts for all. I told him to pick a present and give it to the designated person marked on the package. They would meet in the middle of the room, hand over the gift and get a photo. I said now what does Santa say and they had no idea. I asked Abdalla to tell him as he celebrated last year with me. In his nasally version of ho, ho, ho we all got to laughing. Soon the room was filled with ho, ho, hos.
There is nothing like the feeling of awe lying in bed exhausted after days like these humbly giving praise and thanksgiving to God. How do I deserve so much!
God Bless all of you and Merry, Merry Christmas!
