Editorial

The worth of Christmas

Christmas Day (December 25) is nearing with the traditional “Dawn Mass” to start December 16. There are “panatas” to complete the “Misa de Gallo” out of religious devotion and strengthening of faith, especially among Christians. But the yuletide season is not only for the Christians but for everyone since all partake of the holidays and share with the merriment… a sign of oneness amid diverse religious affiliations.

        Christmas season has a duality --- Love and Peace. Hence the Christmas carol “Peace on Earth.” The two concepts intertwine with each other… without one, the isgone. 

        The Department of Education has ordered the longer celebration of Christmas break to start December 15 instead of December 22 so children and parents can have longer bonding moments and further strengthen familization; that is if the family stays together during the season.

        During this moment, children expect gifts from parents and other loved ones. Of course, adult children also give gifts to parents as a sign of love, affection, and thankfulness. Exchange gifts would be wonderful to show our thoughtfulness and belongingness. Really, Christmas is a family affair…making us closer to one another.

        Better for those who can afford to extend gifts to the indigents. A program for this gift-giving and merriment can be arranged on the neighborhood level. This will fill our heart’s joy from a beloved community member(s)… it’s Christmas and we make the spirit liven.

        It’s also the moment when we pause or reflect on life existence… our birth on earth and why we exist and how we make worth our individual life with others. Human beings are social and we interact with others for our needs, not using each other but complementing each other’s needs. It’s time again to say thanks to the “significant others,” not necessarily our parents but somebody else who are important to us --- a close relative, a teacher, a friend, or whoever they are near to your heart. Yes, thereare “significant others” we can reach to give us solace, inspiration, encouragement, and the needed help.

        Each one needs each other. This season is one moment to cherish the human longingness and closeness. Let’s make the Christmas season another meaningful month --- giving gratitude.  This is the message of Christmas or Yuletide Season.