A Jewish Christmas
![savages-review[1].jpg](http://trouble.philadelphiaweekly.com/archives/savages-review%5B1%5D.jpg)
I was so happy yesterday. I went to the movies (The Savages -- see it) and then went to Chinatown (Jade Harbor -- yum). I know it doesn't sound like much, but it's important to people to preserve or create traditions. There were so many Jewish people at the Ritz movie theater, it was like being in synagogue. I even saw people I grew up with. In the past six or so Christmases, I've been with families celebrating in true Christian commercial fashion, which is great, but not something I have a connection to personally. This year I didn't sit around a Christmas tree, I didn't open presents, I didn't spend time with family (my own or anyone else's). I just had a relaxing and fun day and evening, and it felt good to be free of obligation to a holiday that isn't my own. It felt really healthy and stress-free.
Comments
from one jew to another, happy holiday! I did the chinese/movie th8ing too.
Posted by: susan | December 26, 2007 04:13 PM
I just saw that movie today...did you like it? I did.
Posted by: M. | December 26, 2007 11:48 PM
from one not-so-jewish, not-so-christian person with a very christian name to one of my favorite jews: happy holidays and I'm glad you enjoyed the movies! p.s. don't tell anyone, but when we celebrate christmas at this time of year we are kind of celebrating a pagan holiday if that lifts anyone's spirits any! :) holidays schmolidays! I NEED SNOW!!!
Posted by: Kristin | December 27, 2007 03:51 AM
Egad, that sounds good. I hate Christmas. I spent some time with a Jewish friend this year and it was such a wonderful thing to share the non-holiday with someone who doesn't have all that baggage. I loved it.
We had pizza at home, totally ignored the holiday. I never thought of Chinese food, although we did almost go to the movies.
Posted by: Sherry | December 27, 2007 09:46 AM