Vietnam had 50-some
years of French occupation which brought missionaries and Catholic churches.
Despite official Communism for 40-some years now, there are signs of Christmas
but mostly the commercial kind, not the religious kind. Snowflakes and Santas
have a backdrop of tropical greenery. A mashup of tree decorations has ancient
Vietnamese myths and symbols where we might have reindeer and wise men. The
night brings festive (but unconnected?) lion dancers, and lots of kids dressed
as Mr. or Mrs. Claus.
All these are
superficial Christmas symbols. But in my pack I've been carrying some tree
ornaments from home. They got a bit beat up, but are a little bit of tradition
continued in this far-off place. As midnight nears, we're thinking of all our
family and friends gathered with loved ones or on their own. We are with all of
you in spirit and in love, and wish you peace and joy as you celebrate a Merry
Christmas.
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