Traditions

Today, December 5th is the beginning of all Christmas celebrations in the world of the Dutch. It is the day of “Sinterklaas” or “Saint Nicholas” which in Holland is the “giving” day of Christmas. This is the day when Saint Nicholas (the equivalent to our Santa Claus) comes through the villages on his horse bringing all the “good” children their annual gifts. When my mother was a young girl during war time she remembers receiving an orange in her wooden shoe on the morning of "Sinterklaas".  At that time, this was a treat and became a long time tradition in her family.

"Sinterklaas" is accompanied by “Zwarte Piet” (black Peter) who throws nuts at the “bad” children. Horrible, I know, but this is the tradition and "Zwarte Piet" is really only there for drama and effect. December 25th is the spiritual day of Christmas as those who believe attend church with family and friends. Gifts are not exchanged on this day and the focus is on family, food and drink and the celebration of the birth of Christ.

My family has long adapted the traditions of Canada as we wait for December 25th before we embrace the joy of giving and receiving. However, we subconsciously prepare and decorate our homes in time for the first week of December. We ensure that the tree is up and the decorations are hanging in anticipation that perhaps “Sinterklaas” may gallop through our town, “Zwarte Piet” on his heels. We know that today, across the ocean, children will be getting up early for annual traditions set many, many years ago. In 20 days they will rise on the same day and we will all celebrate new life. How amazing that in different lands and within each family we have created a variety of traditions, and yet very like beliefs.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0xJkzj9yMUc

And so, today I wish everyone a very happy “Sinterklaas”, as we settle into holiday gatherings, festive celebrations and family traditions created over the years.