Christmas Spirit: Spreading Love Across Continents

0
208

By: Qamar Bashir

Macomb, Detroit, Michigan

During my four years in Kuala Lumpur, France each, and now in the USA, I have been privileged to experience the profound joy and festive spirit of Christmas. In countries with a predominantly Christian population, Christmas transcends being merely a one-day or three-day event; it is a season-long celebration that permeates every facet of life. From the grand gestures of governments and corporations to the heartfelt efforts of small businesses, neighborhoods, households, and individuals, the Christmas spirit is truly ubiquitous. Cities come alive with dazzling lights, ornate decorations, and bustling Christmas markets, while music, caroling, and acts of kindness fill the air with warmth and cheer.

Our Christmas experience in Europe was truly unforgettable—a magical journey that began well over a month before the actual day. The festive spirit swept across the continent like a joyful wave, with government municipalities entering a spirited competition to outshine one another in illuminating their streets and adorning roadside trees. Every corner seemed to sparkle with radiant lights, transforming cities into enchanting wonderlands.

In Paris, along the legendary Champs-Élysées, a makeshift Christmas market sprang to life, exuding charm and warmth. Family-run businesses from across the region set up vibrant stalls, each brimming with unique treasures. The air was filled with tantalizing aromas of homemade regional delicacies—warm mulled wine, buttery pastries, and spiced treats—inviting everyone to indulge in the culinary traditions of Christmas. Stalls showcased a delightful array of Christmas-themed items: hand-knit sweaters, intricately crafted ornaments, heartwarming souvenirs, and other essentials that encapsulate the holiday spirit.

The energy was contagious, as people from all walks of life came together to celebrate. Couples strolled hand-in-hand under the sparkling lights, children’s laughter echoed as they marveled at the decorations, and friends gathered around outdoor heaters, sharing stories and joy. It wasn’t just about the shopping or the food; it was about the sense of community and togetherness that Christmas brings. The streets seemed alive with a shared purpose: to celebrate love, generosity, and the joy of the season.

This immersive experience captured the very essence of Christmas—a celebration of light, hope, and human connection. It was a heartwarming reminder of how this beautiful tradition can bring out the best in humanity, weaving magic into the fabric of everyday life.

The Champs-Élysées and the Eiffel Tower naturally became the epicenters of Christmas celebrations in Paris, drawing in locals and tourists alike in vibrant hordes to revel in the magic of the season. Families and friends strolled these iconic landmarks, basking in the glow of dazzling lights and soaking in the unmistakable Christmas spirit that seemed to hang in the air like a warm embrace. The sights, sounds, and aromas of the season created an atmosphere so enchanting that it felt as though the entire city had transformed into a living fairytale.

One unforgettable Christmas season, we were fortunate to visit Geneva, Switzerland—a city that seemed to embody the very soul of the holidays. The Christmas market was a sight to behold, with stalls that radiated warmth and charm. We wandered through its festive labyrinth for hours, relishing the local delicacies and savoring the unmistakable flavors of Swiss tradition, all while carefully ensuring to avoid non-Halal offerings. The twinkling lights, snow-kissed surroundings, and the hum of joyful chatter left us spellbound, etching those moments into our hearts forever.

Now in Detroit, Michigan, we’ve found ourselves immersed in the festive charm of the upscale neighborhoods in Macomb County. The Christmas spirit here is nothing short of infectious. The local administration sprang into action a month before the holidays, adorning the trees lining the streets with mesmerizing lights in a myriad of colors and patterns. By evening, the view transformed into a magical spectacle, a magnetic display that could draw even the most indifferent passerby into its festive embrace.

The homes in this neighborhood seemed to compete in their dedication to the season, with families pouring their hearts—and fortunes—into elaborate displays. Caroling figurines, glowing Santas, and signs of Christian faith adorned almost every yard, creating a mesmerizing patchwork of light and color. Walking through these streets at night was like stepping into a dream. The decorations welcomed visitors with their bewitching beauty, stirring feelings of warmth, joy, and togetherness, and amplifying the true essence of Christmas. It was not just a celebration of the season but a heartfelt expression of community and faith—a testament to the enduring magic of this special time of year.

The United States boasts numerous festive hubs renowned for their extravagant Christmas celebrations, each offering a unique blend of tradition and spectacle. New York City is a hallmark of holiday magic, with the Rockefeller Center’s iconic Christmas tree, ice skating rink, and dazzling Fifth Avenue window displays drawing millions. In Chicago, the Christkindlmarket transforms Daley Plaza into a German-inspired wonderland of crafts, treats, and warm mulled wine. Leavenworth, Washington, a Bavarian-style village, feels straight out of a snow globe, complete with carolers and a grand tree-lighting ceremony. Charleston, South Carolina, offers a Southern twist with its Festival of Lights, while San Antonio’s River Walk dazzles with illuminated pathways and boat parades. Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, aptly named “Christmas City,” brims with charm, markets, and live nativity scenes. From coast to coast, these festive centers embody the joy, warmth, and magic of the Christmas season, making them must-visit destinations for holiday enthusiasts. Statistically, the Christmas season is one of the most celebrated holidays globally, with approximately 2 billion people participating in some form, showcasing its universal appeal. In the USA, the season contributes significantly to the economy, generating an estimated $900 billion in retail sales annually.

An equally heartwarming aspect of Christmas is its deeply rooted philanthropic spirit, which shines brightest during the holiday season. Across the United States, malls, markets, and government initiatives set up special facilities to encourage well-to-do families to donate generously to Christmas funds and charities. These funds serve as a beacon of hope, ensuring that the joy of Christmas reaches everyone, including children in orphanages and families living below the poverty line. In 2022 alone, Americans donated an estimated $500 billion to charitable causes, with a significant portion directed towards holiday-focused programs.

Christmas delivers a timeless message of love, reaching far and wide, spreading hope, happiness, and the warmth of togetherness across the globe. It is a call to action for compassion, urging us to take responsibility for not only our own lives but also the well-being of others. The spirit of Christmas inspires us to build a world where kindness prevails, where differences dissolve in the face of mutual respect, and where the joy of giving becomes a cornerstone of our shared existence.

By: Qamar Bashir

Press Secretary to the President (Rtd)

Former Press Minister at Embassy of Pakistan to France

Former MD, SRBC