Christmas isn’t just another holiday but an opportunity to share one's love, care and affection with those we hold dear the most. As we celebrate the birth of Christ, we remember his acts, teachings and virtues.

Growing up in Nepal, I always saw Christmas as just another holiday. As this nation is primarily Hindu, we didn't see much of the festivities while growing up. But with the advent of secularism, acceptance of Christianity grew and the celebration of the birth of Christ. 

Commonly referred to as Christmas, it is the day marked by Christians as the birth of Jesus Christ. He is known as Jesus of Nazareth, and his teachings are the founding principles of Christianity.  Christmas is also referred to as the 'Feast-day of Christ.' A day marked in the annual Gregorian calendar to celebrate his birth, teachings with one's family and friends. 

A popular reason for children to remember this holiday is due to the legendary patron named Santa Claus. As per popular belief, he is an elderly gentleman clad in red.  He brings gifts to children who are good throughout the year. A saying goes like this, "If you are naughty, Santa won't bring you gifts on Christmas."

Amongst the various decorations of Christmas, the Christmas tree is the most popular. During the holiday, public places feature a tree decorated with beautiful ornaments and a star on top. This tradition dates back to the 16th century when Martin Luther brought home a tree (evergreen conifer) adorned it. He told his children that when he was walking home, the evergreen trees reminded him of Christ. From this point, the decorated tree began to symbolize the light that Christ brought to this world. 

Apart from the presents, decoration and religious symbolism, this day helps unite friends and family. In the course of life, family members take various paths in life. They pursue their endeavors and are far from home. It gets difficult to communicate with them. For some, it takes a heavy mental toll. Thus, on Christmas, members and friends unite to share their experiences, woes and joys. A beautiful feast is prepared to celebrate the year and all the challenges and achievements. The festival of Dashain in our culture bears similarities with this celebration. 

Thus, this day is more than an occasion but an opportunity to unite and bond. As members sit around the great feast prepared with love and devotion, they can't help but think of their childhood and all the beautiful memories attached to them. As they look around, they see the people who truly matter to them.