No lights

Because I am Muslim, and living in a country that is full of Muslims, I won't be witnessing the Christmas and holiday season like I would if I was living in the States.

I won't be hearing the sale ads on the radio and on television.

No Christmas specials on tv and no holiday cooking shows.

There will be no driving past many a house decorated brightly with all manner of lights and sparkly festive items.

And I miss it.

I thought it would be nice to get a break from the incessant advertising and commercialism that comes with the holiday season, and yeah, that part is nice to get a break from.  But it's only a small part of what makes the holiday season in the States.

Even though I don't technically celebrate Christmas anymore, the feeling that the holidays brings comes regardless of what holidays I celebrate.  When October and November hit, that holiday feeling starts up!

After 40 years of living through the holidays, that feeling of "holiday" is part of who I am I suppose.

The cold weather, the baking, the cheerful songs on the radio, people bustling around trying to get things done, and in general, people getting excited about something.

I don't miss the gifts, I just miss the feeling of being in the middle of and surrounded by everyone else getting excited and celebrating.  Well, and lets be honest, who doesn't like gifts, no matter the occasion?  lol

I guess this isn't coming out as clearly as I had wanted it to.

But I miss being in the States during the holidays.  Insha'Allah next year I will be able to visit, though if I'm visiting earlier in the year, around springtime, then perhaps I still won't be there for the holidays later in the year.

All things for the best.  I just need to remind myself that I'm here because it's where I need to be right now.

And after all, I can still carry that happy holiday spirit around in my heart.