Comparing The Book Of John And Genesis

I’ve always loved New York City. It has always fascinated me. The bright, dazzling lights, the noise that never stops, the frantic, crowded walking in the concrete jungle of the city, while towering skyscrapers stare down at you, are all things I enjoy. In the recent past, my sister and I spent several summers in these tiny apartments while she was performing and training with various dance groups. In the past, mom and I would spend a few months touring the city and visiting museums. We’d also play on playgrounds with spongy surfaces and observe a variety of colorful characters.

My sister, who was selected to be an apprentice with The Joffrey and perform in their productions, required us to go to NYC temporarily with her. The realization that I will not be spending this year’s Christmas with my dearest friend Jonas in Colorado as we have done the past decade set in three weeks prior to Christmas.

I have always loved the festivals and fun fairs we go to in Colorado. A favorite tradition of mine is driving through the neighborhood with hot cocoa and candy canes while admiring all of the decorations. The day after Christmas is a very special tradition. I enjoy my new holiday treats with Jonas. In New York City, this wouldn’t be possible. It was a sad realization for me, knowing that this Christmas would not be like any other and most likely will not even be as enjoyable.

When my mom noticed my intense frown, she poked me in the side and asked, “What’s wrong, Gav?”

I replied, “Mom, I’m not certain I want to spend this holiday season here.”

Mom looked deeply into my eyes and asked, “Really?”

“It won’t be the same,” cried I. “It won’t be fun.” We won’t do anything we normally do during this time, and Jonas won’t play with me after Christmas because of all the new gifts. I think that it would be better to go home during the holidays.

Gav, I think you’re correct,” she agreed. “It will be different, but we need to stay with your sister until her holiday performance is over. We agreed on this at the start of our journey. What’s the point of being different if it’s not as much fun? I understand that being away from home, especially at this time of year, is difficult. However, I have made plans that I think you’ll like, as well as a surprise that will make it seem that you’re in Colorado. I’m sure you’ll enjoy the surprise.

As I knew that I couldn’t do much about it, I just nodded in agreement, knowing I wouldn’t enjoy my holiday here in Colorado the same way as I used to.

My mother was right. Over the following weeks, she proved it. She went above and beyond in order to make sure we had a wonderful, festive season. There were so many things to do and see! We started by taking part in Rockefeller Center Tree Lighting Ceremony. There, we were entertained by singers and dancers. Then, we admired gorgeous, sparklingly-decorated windows at two of the largest stores in Manhattan. Macy’s and Saks Fifth Avenue both had themes based on “Living in NYC”. The Rockettes performed their “Christmas Spectacular”, which was absolutely amazing! It really put me in the Christmas mood. Even though I had a great holiday, a sad thought lingered at the back of my head. How could it be that I would truly enjoy the Christmas season if my best buddy, Jonas, was not able to enjoy my newly acquired presents?

The Christmas Day was peaceful and joyful. We celebrated Christmas in the living room of our apartment, next to our tree. We ripped apart gift boxes and festive wrapping papers, excitedly revealing the thoughtful surprises that were hidden within. The day was special for the whole family! My mom made sure to include my favorite holiday meal, which was a juicy Thanksgiving turkey served with potatoes and lightly-buttered Brussels sprouts. Dessert was homemade sorbet and cookies that we decorated ourselves. As I washed my hands and brushed teeth, I could not help but think that the next day would never be as good as the day after back home.

The loud intercom honk woke me abruptly up the next day. Someone must’ve accidentally pressed the switch, as we didn’t expect any guests.

My mother called out from the bathroom “Gav. Could you please answer that buzzer?” I’m not able to do it at this time.”

After stumbling from bed, I press the “talk” key. “Who are you?” I ask slightly annoyed.

“Bro, Open the Door!” exclaimed the arrogant guest.

“Who is that?” I repeated. My anger was now doubled.

You don’t even remember my voice after all that time? The visitor laughed.

I was stunned and said, “No! That’s impossible!” What’s your purpose here?

Jonas teased: “Well, I’ll let you in and see what happens!”

It took the longest time in the world for Jonas to walk up the stairs and into our apartment on the third floor. What was Jonas’s purpose here? Is this real?

I ran up the stairs to check it out as soon as I heard their footsteps. It was Jonas. It was Jonas! I was so happy!

I hugged him tightly and brought him to my apartment. There, we played on my PS4 for hours and talked about past Christmases spent in Colorado. I’m not even sure what our mothers did. I had no idea as I was focusing solely on Jonas. I was so happy!

My best friend and I had the most amazing time together! Jonas’ mom was with me and we showed them all the places that were special to us. We visited Manhattan, Times Square and the museum. Then we played pinballs at an amusement center, and had some free play time in my NYC parkour studio. Jonas had an amazing time with me!

The three days passed by too quickly. Suddenly, we had to leave again. The best mother on the planet planned for my amazing New York City Christmas holiday, no matter how busy her schedule was. The Christmas was certainly different, and it was an unusual one. But the experience was fantastic!