Multicultural Manners : Christmas Ritual Just Too Spirited

Evans is an elderly man who treasures his privacy and quiet. To his dismay, the house next door has just been purchased by the Vargas family, who he considers too big and too friendly.

One night, Evans is beside himself over the commotion going on next door. A large group has gathered in the Vargas’ back yard, laughing and singing. Suddenly, a small hard object comes hurling through the air, slamming against Evans’ kitchen window. Livid, Evans confronts his neighbors.

What went wrong?

The Vargas family was observing Las Posadas as they had in Mexico. This ritual, celebrated for nine days before Christmas, musically and dramatically re-enacts the story of Mary and Joseph searching for lodging.

The Vargas family was offering shelter to Mary and Joseph and food to all the pilgrims accompanying them. They served posole (pork and hominy stew), tamales and bunuelos (cinnamon-flavored cookies). High spirits reigned until a hard candy from a pinata flew out, connected with Evans’ window and stirred his wrath.

The Vargas family explained the Posadas tradition to Evans, but he only reluctantly accepted their apology. Sorrowfully they realized that not all traditions can simply be transplanted.

Rule: When entertaining large groups, alert neighbors beforehand, explain the occasion and note any cultural significance. If possible, include them in the festivities.