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My mother often greeted her same-age holiday guests by quickly saying “Christmas gift” before they could say it. Then they would giggle. My childhood mind couldn’t find humor or sense in this practice, but recently I learned its origin.
Although slavery in America was a harsh existence endured by many Black Americans, there was often a brief reprieve from their exhausting work during the period between Christmas and New Year’s when slavemasters allowed slaves to briefly socialize with their fellow slaves on the plantation. Adult slaves would put little presents, such as a piece of fruit or candy, in their pockets. If someone (usually a child) came up to them and said “Christmas gif'” first, they’d have to give them a present. It was similar to the “trick or treat” tradition we celebrate at Halloween.
When I realize that this one week period of time was the only time out of the whole year that my slave ancestors had a break from forced labor so they could act and feel like real families, I’m painfully aware of why the holidays were so immensely joyful for them. For those who were fortunate enough to actually live on the same plantation with their blood relatives, laughing and singing the hopeful strains of the Gospels and carols gave added dimension.
The cultural, sociological and religious history of holiday customs is long and intertwining with many twists and turns.
As I lavishly adorn my Christmas tree in my warm and comfortable home, I’m painfully aware of the hardships that my ancestors endured over a century ago and am ashamed to feel anything but gratitude and joy for my own life. Even though the media fills the waves with stories of lack, horror and dismal economic forecasts, I refuse to be sucked in. I celebrate my freedom.
I’ve been blessed to have access to education, resources, and the opportunity to raise my children without fear that they could be taken away from me on the whim of someone who only saw us as property. I know that I’m not alone. Many of you can look back only a few decades to see how your situation in your family or ethnic group was very different.
So, even if you don’t have adequate finances, the kind of home you prefer or even a mate this holiday, be thankful if you have freedom. That means that all these things are within your reach. Don’t let anything steal the joy to which you are entitled or keep you from exercising your freedom to claim it.
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