December in Palangkaraya marks the start of a highly anticipated holiday season for Christians in the local community. This month featured a Christmas gathering with students and teachers from SMK Negeri 3 Palangkaraya. ETA Nia Dufeal was invited to share in this local Christmas celebration. The celebration, which included the singing of Christmas songs in English and Indonesian, a Christmas play performed by students, and traditional dances, reflected the community’s pillars of togetherness and gratitude.

Afterward, everyone gathered to enjoy food, conversation, and a strong sense of community. The event concluded with a Christmas raffle, which brought plenty of excitement to attendees. As Nia participated in the celebration, she was repeatedly struck by how closely these traditions mirrored those of her own family’s Christmas celebrations. The experience offered a meaningful reminder that, despite differences in place and language, there are many ways to find a sense of deep and genuine connection with others.

Nia Dufeal is currently teaching at SMK 3 Palangkaraya, Central Kalimantan.