Christmas

Decorating the tree // Valeria, age 14
Photo source: Unknown

I never know how to feel about Christmas. Everybody says it is the most joyful time of the year. Large trees with bulbous decorations in every nook and cranny of the castle, snow falling from the enchanted ceiling in the Great Hall, Ravenclaws secretly wishing their house colours are the festive rouge, jaune, or vert. Definitely all very aesthetically appealing to your average witch or wizard. But joyful?

I realize that a select few of my fellow classmates would give anything to spend the holiday at home. I, on the other hand, would give anything to spend the holiday away from home. Unless uncontrollably temperamental, wolfish relatives are your cup of tea. Not to mention maman et papa are typically summoned elsewhere for Christmas. Or they choose to spend it with potential “allies” rather than their own children. Just like two Christmases ago, in which I ended up having the manor to myself because Alain had gone elsewhere as well.

I agree, the decorations are add some festive touch and joy to the holiday, but it is also a very lonely time of the year for some, myself included. Nevertheless, I still decided to go back home rather than mope around in a large castle. At least I’ll have my privacy. But despite all I just said, I guess seeing other people so happy, inclusive, and generous (in ways) warms my heart. Maybe I enjoy Christmas, just a bit.