CULTURAL... (from front page)

goat, chicken or beef.”

“The walls of the ‘majlis’ I made for my mother consist of the Egyptian wall adorned with authentic images of pharaos, queens, and mystic rituals drawn on papyrus; a Bedouin-themed wall; Arabian Calligraphy wall; and the traditional Clothes wall.”

“There is also a table on which is placed intricate figurines of Arabian men and women along with a box containing incense, frankincense and myrrh. Oil perfumes and the traditional oud (Agarwood, a precious Middle Eastern resin giving a strong scent) along with a traditional coffee pot called ‘dallah’ are permanent fixtures found in a majlis,” detailed Thamara.

Although Mary Ann is grateful for the wonderful gift of her daughter to her, she confessed that she would not be completely lonely this Christmas. “I have the time to do things that will enhance my selfesteem and give me a good dose of fun to take my mind away from feeling alone. There are intimate parties to attend, exchange gifts with relatives and friends, and enjoy jolly feelings while catching up with close friends that we missed during the stay-athome period of this horrible pandemic. I also have organizations I belong to with causes and advocacies

I believe in. Helping others who are less fortunate, like donating funds for the Odette typhoon victims, can fill you with feelings of love and pride. It also reminds us of all the blessings we have to be grateful for; and connect us with others who share our passion and compassion,” confessed Mary Ann.

Indeed, there are many ways to immerse yourself in the true spirit of the holiday season without feeling lonely and depressed. Make the start of the New Year 2022 a truly good one for yourself and for others. To quote Leon Brown: “You have the power within yourself to make anything possible…”