Beyond the Tinsel and Lights
Christmas, a time of joy, love, and family. A time when the world seems to pause, bathed in a warm glow of festive lights. It's a season filled with traditions, both old and new, that bring comfort and cheer.
As a child, the magic of Christmas was palpable. The colorful parols, the joyful carols, and the anticipation of gifts painted a picture of pure wonder.
One of my favorite Christmas traditions was going caroling with my friends. We’d walk from house to house, with some bottle caps flattened and wrapped around a wire as our makeshift bells, singing our hearts out, hoping for a small reward. Sometimes, we’d even start caroling as early as October, only to be met with the familiar phrase, “Balik lang mo ug December na.” But that didn’t dampen our spirits. We were just excited to spread the Christmas cheer.
Early in the morning, I think starting from December 16 to 24, we’d attend a Christmas mass called Misa de Gallo. The church, adorned with twinkling lights and fragrant flowers, was a sight to behold. As the choir sang hymns of praise, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of awe and gratitude.
I’d often stay up late on Christmas Eve, watching classic films like Home Alone 1 and 2. The countdown to midnight, the excitement of opening presents, and the warm glow of the Christmas tree filled the night with a sense of peace and joy.
When the clock strikes 12, we’d gather around the table, sharing a festive meal and exchanging stories and laughter. And of course, no Christmas is complete without the exchange of gifts. The excitement of unwrapping presents, the anticipation of receiving something special, and the joy of giving to others create a magical atmosphere.
Yet, beyond the festivities and the material gifts, Christmas holds a deeper meaning. It's a time to reflect on the birth of Jesus Christ, a symbol of hope, peace, and love. It's a reminder to cherish our loved ones, to practice kindness, and to spread joy.
After Christmas Eve, the festivities would wind down. The fireworks would light up the night sky, a dazzling display of colors and sound. And then, just as quickly as it had begun, the Christmas season would come to an end.
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However, as the days turn into weeks, the Christmas spirit gradually fades. The decorations are taken down, the lights are turned off, and the world returns to its usual pace. The magic of Christmas seemed to fade. The pandemic, with its restrictions and limitations, further dampened the festive spirit. The once bustling streets, adorned with twinkling lights and bustling crowds, now seem quiet and subdued. It's a bittersweet reality, a reminder that even the most joyous seasons come to an end.
Perhaps it’s a matter of maturity. As we grow older, our perspective shifts. The simple joys of childhood, once so profound, now seem less significant.
But I believe that even as we grow older, we can still recapture the magic of Christmas. We can do so by focusing on the true meaning of the season: love, peace, and compassion. By spending time with loved ones, giving back to the community, and practicing acts of kindness, we can rekindle the Christmas spirit.
Let us not let the fading glow of Christmas extinguish the light within us. Let us embrace the season with open hearts and renewed hope. After all, Christmas is not just a day, but a state of mind.