Melkam Gena

Ethiopian Christmas was a special day for Aster. It sounds just lovely.

Early in the morning, when it was still dark, Aster heard drumming and singing.  As the group moved closer to her home, she woke up and joined the group. As they walked through the streets, more and more children came out of their homes and joined the singing/drumming group (and mamas too - if they wanted). Once all the children were collected, they headed to church.

All of the children sang together in church. It must have been beautiful. When they were finished, the children returned to their homes and had breakfast.

It was then the adults' turn to go to church. At lunch time, all of her family and friends met at the church and enjoyed injera and wats. Everyone shared food, "a pot luck."

That tradition she really likes. Sharing food. That's a tradition she would like to continue.

This weekend we will celebrate Ethiopian Christmas with good friends. As presents, Aster wants to bring her favorite Ethiopian snacks- mangoes, bananas and avocados,
"People like food as presents!"

Extraordinary, right?
I know.