Summary:
The speaker recounts her childhood experiences of not having a proper Christmas due to her Chinese cultural background and financial constraints. She felt left out as her family did not follow typical Australian Christmas traditions, lacked decorations, presents, and celebrations. Despite her desire for a Christmas tree and festive experiences, she couldn't have them due to financial limitations. The speaker eventually received combined Christmas and birthday gifts due to her January birthday, leaving her feeling disappointed. Despite this, as an adult, she didn't feel a strong urge to adopt elaborate Christmas traditions, accepting her upbringing and valuing family time during the holidays.
1. The speaker is Chinese-Australian and grew up in Australia.
2. The speaker's parents were first-generation immigrants and refugees from China.
3. The speaker's parents were studying when they immigrated to Australia.
4. The speaker's parents were struggling financially and culturally when they arrived in Australia.
5. The speaker's parents were Chinese and didn't celebrate Christmas, instead celebrating Chinese New Year.
6. The speaker felt different and left out during Christmas because they didn't have traditional Christmas experiences.
7. The speaker started getting presents for Christmas around the age of 10-12.
8. The speaker's parents gave them a combined Christmas and birthday present due to financial constraints.
9. The speaker was born in January, making them a "January baby," which can complicate gift-giving around the holidays.
10. The speaker was upset when they couldn't have two presents for Christmas because their birthday is in January.
11. Christmas in Australia is different due to the country's location in the southern hemisphere.
12. The speaker wrote a song called "This Christmas" to relate to those who have non-traditional Christmas experiences.
13. The speaker encourages others to celebrate Christmas differently, emphasizing the importance of being with loved ones.