Dorji's Chirstmas in Mongolia

[Oddpurplefly 159]

As the holiday season approached, Dorji Khan a standout player for the Toronto Legion in the VHL, packed his bags with eager anticipation. The excitement wasn’t just about a break from the grueling hockey schedule or even the off-season training but the chance to reunite with his family in Mongolia. Dorji was heading home for Christmas, a holiday that isn’t widely celebrated in Mongolia but held a special place in his family’s heart.

 

Dorji’s journey took him from the busy cityscape of Toronto to the vast serene expanses of the Mongolian grasslands. He cherished the contrast of the cold air of the Canadian winter swapped for the equally brisk yet profoundly peaceful Mongolian landscape.

 

Upon his arrival, Dorji was greeted with warm hugs and hearty laughter. The family’s celebration of Christmas, though unconventional was rich with tradition and love. Every year the men of the family embarked on an eagle hunting expedition to secure their Christmas meal. Early morning on Christmas Eve, Dorji, his father and his uncles dressed in traditional fur lined deel and prepared their golden eagles. These impressive birds trained over generations were vital to their way of life. With their eagles perched confidently on their arms, the men rode out into the wilderness. The hunt was a test of skill, patience and respect for nature. Dorji, despite his athletic prowess on the ice, found the experience humbling and profoundly grounding. The bond between hunter and eagle, the silence of the vast grasslands and the sharp focus required all made it a sacred ritual. By the afternoon, they returned with a bag full of hares. The eagles having skillfully caught the game that would become their Christmas feast. Dorji’s mother would prepare their traditional hare stew with the vegetables they grew on their family farm.

 

Back at the yurt while the men went hunting, the women were engaged in their own preparations transforming their home into a festive wonderland. Dorji’s mother and aunts were skilled artisans and this time of year showcased their creativity and craftsmanship. Handmade decorations were a cherished tradition. They used materials from the environment like strips of felt from sheep’s wool, fur from past hare and wolf hunts, delicate paper made from birch bark and vibrant dyes derived from local plants. They crafted intricate ornaments, each with a story to tell. Felt and furs were dyed in deep reds and greens then cut and stitched into shapes resembling stars, animals and traditional symbols. Birch bark was carefully folded and sculpted into beautiful natural garlands. They even made lanterns using thinly stretched hides, painted with intricate designs and illuminated from within by candles. These lanterns cast a warm, soft glow, reminiscent of the spirit of the season.

As the sun set, the yurt and its surroundings came alive with color and light. The women hung their handmade decorations throughout the yurt and around its entrance. Christmas lights, a nod to more modern traditions, twinkled among the handmade ornaments, creating a magical atmosphere. Inside the warmth of the stove was mixing with the scent of their feast in preparation, while outside the yard glittered under the starlit sky. A true testament to their unique celebration.

 

On Christmas Day the family gathered for their meal. The hares caught during the hunt were prepared with care accompanied by traditional Mongolian dishes like steamed dumplings  and fried pastries. They shared stories, laughter and gratitude making the most of this rare time together. Dorji cherished these moments. Despite his success in the world of hockey, it was these humble, heartfelt traditions that kept him grounded. Each Christmas spent in Mongolia reminded him of his roots, the love of his family and the importance of maintaining their unique heritage. It wasn’t the typical Christmas many experienced but to Dorji and his family it was perfect in its own special way.

 

640 words

PT week Dec. 23 to 29

[der meister 3,246]

The Khan - Shevchenko pairing on the wings could be trouble for the rest of the VHL. Enjoy your holiday!

[LucyXpher 1,578]

Merry Christmas!   

[Oddpurplefly 159]

10 hours ago, der meister said:

The Khan - Shevchenko pairing on the wings could be trouble for the rest of the VHL. Enjoy your holiday!

I do believe so. It would be the towers of power.

And thank you! Hope you have great holidays as well!

 

Edited 14 hours ago by Oddpurplefly

[Oddpurplefly 159]

9 hours ago, LucyXpher said:

Merry Christmas!   

Merry Christmas to you as well Lucy!