BACKGROUND

Food, music and gifts from friends are only part of the Kwanzaa experience.

Kwanzaa is also a serious time of reflection and preparation--looking back on the year that has been, making plans for the year to come. During the seven days of Kwanzaa, African Americans take time to renew their commitments to principles that govern their lives and to work that enhances family and community.

The holiday, which begins Dec. 26 and continues through Jan. 1, is an African American celebration based on a philosophy known as kawaida. Observers reflect and recommit to the principles of Kwanzaa: unity, self-determination, collective work and responsibility, cooperative economics, purpose, creativity and faith. A candle is lighted for each of the principles.

Of course, food, music and gifts (one for each day of the holiday)--the sharing of the good things in life--offer a sweet balance to the more sober side of the celebration.