A Very Merry Christmas

"The Christmas tree is a symbol of love, not money." "When they're all lit up, they have a glory that surpasses anything all the money in the world could buy." Andy Rooney

Ask yourself, "What does Christmas mean to you?" Is it the Christmas presents? the much-anticipated reunions with family and friends? Is it the entire Christmas celebration, beginning with the first lights, sparkling window displays, and the sound of Christmas music in the frosty air, or is it the family gathering together to share one of the most significant days of the year? For every one of us, Christmas means something different, something uniquely individual.

Christmas, which began as a Christian holiday, has crossed religious, cultural, and social boundaries to become a highlight of the year for nearly everyone. Christmas brings light when the year is at its lowest and darkest point. The themes of hope, new beginnings, unity, togetherness, and celebration are deeply embedded in the Christian faith. And as humans, we have joyfully welcomed the arrival of light and brightness in the midst of endless darkness.

For me, Christmas is a joyous occasion. It's all about giving and helping others. People remember Jesus Christ and his life lessons on this day. The event surely teaches us to be nice and kind to one another and to aid those who have less than we do. In the Philippines, Christmas begins in September. They are already preparing for Christmas, with some starting to build huge Christmas trees, Christmas lights, and any other decorations that can be designed in the homes.

This year, we celebrated Christmas and New Year in La Union. I began my Christmas celebrations by completing and attending the Misa de Gallo. We left early on December 24 for La Union, where we rested briefly before helping our aunties and lolas with Noche Buena preparations. We attended the midnight mass at 8:30 in the evening. We went to Lola Mila's house after the mass to wait for and celebrate Jesus' birth. Everyone shared their stories and experiences as we waited, and we spoke about life and stuff. When the clock struck twelve, we started wishing each other "Merry Christmas." I also wished my mother and other special loved ones via text message. After the greetings, we go to the dining room to eat. There's a lot of food ready on the table: lechon, leche flan, barbecue, salad, Shanghai, siomai, different kinds of bread and coffee, soft drinks, and more. After eating and a lot of talking, everyone goes home and rests.

When I woke up the next morning, they were all preparing for the afternoon Christmas party: someone was cooking, someone was decorating, someone was arranging gifts and prizes, and so on. I joined them after eating breakfast. We began the Christmas party with the Mendoza Clan in the afternoon. There were numerous giveaways and prizes, as well as numerous activities and performances. We eat dinner once we've finished playing and watching. The celebration was indeed joyous.

Christmas is, indeed, a magical celebration that aims to bring joy and happiness. This is the season dedicated to celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ. Though this was its initial aim, the Christmas season has evolved into a symbol of living in peace and love. Christmas is essentially a reminder of why we should stay true to our humanity. That is, we are reminded to share, donate to the less fortunate, spend time with loved ones, and have a positive outlook on life in general through celebration.