By: Raphaella Callista Hendarson

            Last December marked a truly captivating Christmas for my family and me in Jakarta. The festive spirit filled our home with vibrant decorations, setting the stage for a day filled with cherished moments and heartwarming traditions.

Our day began at 6:30 in the morning with a visit to my Grandma’s cemetery. Despite the early hour, the atmosphere in the car was lively as my sister and I engaged in games, turning the journey into a fun-filled adventure. Once we reached the cemetery, we prepared a heartfelt meal for Mak, my Grandma, consisting of veggies, rice, satay, fruits, noodles, fried chicken, and various cakes. Following this, we gathered for a respectful moment of prayer, reciting the Rosary and adorning her resting place with beautiful roses.

Returning home, my sister and I embraced the tropical weather with a refreshing swim for about an hour. The post-swim hunger led us to a sumptuous lunch with the entire family. The feast was spectacular, featuring a delightful spread ranging from rice and soup to a delectable assortment of vegetables and meats. During lunch, we had a lovely conversation about the past year: what we did, accomplished, and experienced. I enjoyed listening to everyone’s stories because it’s something that we don’t do often.

After the satisfying meal, the focus shifted to the eagerly awaited moment of exchanging gifts. My sister, cousins, and I gathered to unwrap our presents while the adults continued their joyful conversations. The excitement in the air was palpable, and the unwrapping session lasted 45 minutes before we decided to extend the festivities by heading to my Uncle and Aunt’s house for more gift-opening surprises. The reactions to the presents were as diverse as the gifts themselves. From my sister’s “Wow, I can’t believe it” to my cousin’s delighted “Bagus banget” (meaning “Very beautiful” in Indonesian), each expression captured the joy and appreciation of the moment.

Reflecting on the day, I couldn’t help but feel immense gratitude for the opportunity to bond with my family. The mix of traditions made this Christmas truly special, from the heartfelt visit to Grandma’s cemetery to the lighthearted swim and the excitement of exchanging presents. It was a day of warmth, laughter, and shared memories I will treasure for years. This year’s Christmas was a captivating celebration of love, togetherness, and the enduring spirit of the holiday season.