Let’s Get Ready to Rumble

Thank you Britain for giving Commonwealth nations around the world the day after Christmas to continue the celebration.  Known as Boxing Day this holiday reserves when servants and tradesmen would receive gifts from their employers, known as a Christmas box.

Yet this is not the only story.

As I met with Florence and some other friends at her hotel for a late lunch, I inquired about this day and what they knew about its history.

Surprisingly, no one knew so I decided to do some research of my own.  How no one knew what this day was about other than a reason not to go into the office was astonishing. 

But then the Internet did not have a direct answer either and we all know that the Internet holds the answers to the universe right?

According to the numerous websites I read, it is unclear where exactly the name and meaning came from.  Many theories exist yet none are definitive.  Europeans celebrate by giving money and other gifts to the needy and in service position.  It is also believed that they are referencing boxes placed in places of worship where you could donate to the poor.  Britain’s custom was for tradesmen to collect Christmas boxes of money or presents as a sign of appreciation for good service throughout the year and for the servants of the wealthy to visit their families on this day, which employers would bestow to them a box containing gifts, bonuses, and food from the previous day.  Other countries mark this day with sales at department stores, football (soccer) games, parades and festivals, or a day to hunt wild foxes.

The best part of looking up this information was that in some of the African Commonwealth nations, Uganda being one, they mark this day with fighting contests.  Now that is what I was thinking when I learned of Boxing Day!

In Kitgum no ring was setup where people could strap on some gloves for a good fight and thank gosh because I can only imagine the mayhem.  No supermarkets had sales marking down their sugar and flour.  Foxes ran free, as the people are more interested in hunting swamp rats. 

Now football games were played and watched, as were countless beers were consumed by many to continue the celebration from the day before. 

Me?  I enjoyed it with some good friends and good food. 

A perfect way to end the holiday season.