Easter has always held a special place in my heart, but how I celebrate it has evolved with every stage of life.
Easter, that vibrant celebration of renewal and rebirth, has been a standard holiday observed in Nigeria for as long as I can remember. With the holiday in full swing, I’m caught in a bittersweet mix of joy and nostalgia, reflecting on what once was.
I realise my Easter observances have undergone a significant transformation over the years, evolving alongside the changes in my life and priorities.
The years of carefree happiness
As a child, Easter was pure, unadulterated joy. The anticipation began weeks in advance. The thrill of acting in church plays— I played Mary a few times— and the promise of new clothes filled me with excitement.
The Easter holidays meant no school and more time for family bonding, laughter, and endless playtime.
Moreover, I cherished the abundance of money that came with Easter. Family and friends would generously slip ₦100 notes into my hands, and subsequently, I would eagerly anticipate parties where they would spray me with cash, leaving me feeling like I was swimming in money.
Meanwhile, these moments filled me with joy, making Easter a truly special celebration. The focus was on simple pleasures and the warmth of being together at home.
Shifting priorities
Then came the teenage years, a period of exploration and independence. University life took over, and Easter celebrations took a backseat. I traded my once-cherished traditions for studies, new friendships, and a burning ambition to graduate top of my class – a goal that I pursued relentlessly and ultimately achieved.
Consequently, I spent long hours at the library, flipping through pages of textbooks on International Relations, trying to stay on top of my coursework. Meanwhile, I squeezed in shorter hours catching up on events I missed during my library visits. For the most part, the rest of my time was occupied by sleep.
Although it was a break from the usual school routine. The focus of Easter had shifted from family gatherings to personal growth and the pursuit of academic excellence.
Reigniting the spirit of Easter
Now, as a young woman juggling the demands of work and the weight of adulthood, Easter holds a new meaning for me. The simplicity of childhood is gone, replaced by the hustle and bustle of careers and responsibilities.
But amidst the busy schedules, I’ve found a way to reconnect with the spirit of Easter. This means making time for video calls with family, catching up with loved ones, and cherishing the connections that truly matter.
Brunching with friends I’ve been too busy to see has now become a cherished ritual, a way to celebrate the bonds of friendship and shared experiences.
Easter may have evolved from childhood delights to a more nuanced celebration of connection, gratitude, and the simple joys of life. Yet, no matter how much life changes, the essence of Easter—renewal, hope, and togetherness—remains constant.
