Isn’t is strange that Christmas has a universal appeal.

Shops are decorated with tinsel and stars, shiny baubles, angels and even fake snow. I find it fascinating to see the Christmas decorations go up year after year, each one grander and more exotic than the next.

What I find fascinating is that Christmas is celebrated worldwide—at least the decorations are put up in almost every corner of the world. Whether it is a marketing ploy or just joy that the year is getting over, the whole world seems to be engulfed by the Christmassy feeling of Santa Claus, the Christmas Star, Christmas trees, presents, fairy lights, carols, mulled wine, Christmas pudding, Secret Santas and, of course, the Christmas Eve dance. With all the festivities and celebrations, most people forget it is a religious observation. For many devout or practising Christians, it is a time to reaffirm their faith. Of course, they have their celebrations but it is not without prayer and contemplation.

But I’m not complaining. Last week I s[pent a delightful evening with friends singing carols we had sung back in school and today I’m of to a scrumptious, sumptuous Christmas Brunch with my friends.

Merry Christmas all!

Ciao