During many conversations with my Uncle Joe, during his time here we repeatedly said that one of the best things about living abroad is that you learn something new every day! I experienced something very new last Tuesday! Monday night, Christine approached me and told me that there was going to be a "celebration" on Tuesday afternoon so I needed to come home from work a little early. I arrived to find our house completely filled with food and teeth decorations. This was nobody's birthday party, nothing special but apparently in Armenia babies have teeth parties! A week or two prior, eight-month-old Davit got his first tooth! In America this would mean a cute photo on Facebook or a notation in the baby book, but here in Armenia it means party time! |
This party was adorable, but what was extra special was the short ceremony I got to witness at the end of the party.
First they set Davit on the floor. The aunts then held a white sheet over him, while the second aunt sprinkled cooked corn, rice and beans on to the sheet. As she did that, she said a poem about health, happiness and fullness. They then removed the sheet and brought out orange pieces of paper which they sprinkled over him. On each piece of the orange paper, a profession was written. Whatever piece he grabbed first is supposed to signify what he will be when he grows up. Once he chose, the cousins (and sisters) of his generation gathered around him and sang a children's song about having a happy life. It was so cool to witness!
So how true is this ceremony? Will Davit have a happy life? Will he grow up to be a journalist, as is predicted? I'll check back in 20 years with an update.
So how true is this ceremony? Will Davit have a happy life? Will he grow up to be a journalist, as is predicted? I'll check back in 20 years with an update.