One of the things I miss most about Mississippi is the beautiful, uniquely southern way Christmas is celebrated. Since this will be my first Christmas in Boston, I’ve been contemplating ways to make it feel a little more like home while embracing a new season in my life.
My first goal is to cook traditional food but to make it mine. I am most excited to bake an Oreo cake, taking my mom’s classic cake recipe and putting my own spin (and love for Oreos) on it. The anticipation of whipping this up makes me more excited about Christmas. Ingredients have been purchased, and I can hardly wait to make this dish. Good food is absolutely nonnegotiable for Mississippi Christmases.
Secondly, I will be reading each account of Jesus’s birth, in the books of Matthew and Luke. Oftentimes, in the midst of the holiday bustle and business and (in my case) adjusting to a new city, it can be challenging to slow down and prioritize reading the Bible. Irrespective of the circumstances, remembering Christ must be the number one priority.
Growing up in Mississippi means that this time of year is spent working on church programs, having invigorating conversations about Jesus and cooking the best dishes ever. Gift exchange is also important, no doubt, however, holding space for why Christmas is celebrated is prioritized. Although I haven’t found a church home yet, I will be watching as many Mississippi church services as possible on Facebook.
Whether this Christmas is spent with family, friends or whether it is spent alone, the most important thing is understanding that Jesus, born in a manger, temporarily relinquished His throne to come to earth because of his undying love for everyone. One of the greatest parts about Mississippi is that, as a whole, this wonderful state fully encapsulates the essence of love. Whether serving at a local food pantry or secretly dropping off gifts for families who need help, Christ’s love is expressed through the selflessness of Mississippians. Above all that I plan to do to make Christmas in Boston feel more Mississippi-esque, my number one goal is to let love shine. Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to all who celebrate.
