Pies, preparation, bread, and beliefs

My mother taught me to bake pumpkin pies on Christmas eve. They have more time to "chill" in the fridge. And the oven is free for other things on Christmas day. She tried to teach me to make pie crusts. I did not learn. Instead, we developed a tradition. She made the crust. I made the filling. She fell asleep for the final time shortly before Christmas four years ago. Christmas is not the same without her and her pie crusts.

Mother also taught me to bake bread. But challah, which is now my go-to bread for holiday meals, is a recipe I learned in home economics class at Takoma Academy. We learned not only how to activate the yeast and kneed the dough, but also how the braided bread was made on Friday in preparation for the Sabbath. I made my challah today in preparation for Christmas.

I am prepared for Christmas. As I write, church bells begin to ring for an afternoon service. I plan to sing Christmas songs this evening. Perhaps at one of the several churches in walking distance from my home. But more likely at a secular gathering at a nearby non-religious venue.

I believe in seasonal traditions. I believe in family and food. I believe in music and ritual. We do not all share the same families or food. We do not all share the same music or ritual. But I am sending out a wish that we can all share in the preparation for a season of peace on earth and goodwill toward all.