My Way of Christmas *ੈ🎄✩‧₊

    "Whenever I see girls and boys selling lanterns on the streets…" Every time I hear this lyric, I can already feel the holiday spirit stirring within my soul. It is the best feeling that everyone eagerly awaits every year, the joyous season of Christmas! Annually, starting from the first month with a 'ber' September, families, friends, and I, along with countless individuals are excited for this cherished celebration. In my nation, the Philippines, we celebrate this occasion in a unique and a vibrant way that makes it truly special.

    First and foremost, Christmas is more than just a single day of celebration, it is a season that lasts the entire fourth quarter of the year. The anticipation and preparations for Christmas begin as soon as September arrives. Colorful lanterns known as 'Parols' cover homes, buildings, and streets, casting wonderful night radiance. It represents the Bethlehem star, which led the three wise men to Jesus Christ's manger. When I was a child, my eyes would be filled with astonishment, and I would even compare which was the best one displayed in every household in my barangay. In addition, this traditional star-shaped lantern would be my school project back in elementary. It would be created from different materials, such as bamboos, papers, and plastic bottles. 

    Secondly, ever since childhood, my parents would take me to the night mass called 'Simbang Gabi.' This cherished tradition spans nine days in preparation for Christmas, starting on December 15 and culminating on December 23. While there are also dawn masses from December 16 to December 24, my family prefers attending the evening masses. Completing all nine masses is believed to grant a devotee's wish. Before the pandemic, the streets would still be lively after the night mass. Children would gather in front of our gate to sing Christmas carols such as "Ang Pasko ay Sumapit," "Pasko na naman," "Jingle Bells," and more. My father and I were delighted to listen to their joyful melodies, even if some were a bit out of tune. I appreciated the resourcefulness of improvised musical instruments like tambourines made from tansans also known as bottle caps. However, since the pandemic, fewer people have gone door-to-door for caroling. Hopefully, this beloved custom will make a comeback soon.

    Furthermore, Christmas isn't complete without the tradition of exchanging gifts with our loved ones. The act of giving gifts goes beyond the material aspect; it is a symbol of showing appreciation and genuine care for the person receiving the gift. It also carries a more profound meaning tied to the birth of Jesus Christ. Just as the Three Wise Men presented gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh to honor the newborn Jesus, our giving reflects the recognition of the ultimate gift given to humanity, the birth of our Savior. By exchanging gifts, we embody the spirit of love, generosity, and gratitude, mirroring the selfless nature of Jesus' arrival and the profound impact he continues to have on our lives.

    Lastly, on Christmas Eve, also known as Noche Buena, my family gathers to prepare a delicious feast we eagerly enjoy at midnight. We cook ham, spaghetti, macaroni salad, and other tasty dishes that fill our home with delightful aromas. This special meal represents our love for one another and the joyful spirit of Christmas. As we come together around the table, we share laughter, stories, and create cherished memories that make this evening unforgettable. Noche Buena is a time of celebration, gratitude, and the joy of being with loved ones during the holiday season.

    To sum up, Christmas in the Philippines is about more than just gifts. For millions of Filipinos who value their unique and vibrant traditions, this is a time of excitement, preparation, and joy. These traditions reflect the Filipino people's faith, culture, and values, as well as the recognition of the greatest gift ever given to humanity, the birth of our Lord and Savior. Christmas is also a time for celebration, gratitude, and the joy of spending time with loved ones. I hope that by sharing my personal experience of celebrating Christmas in my home country, I have inspired you to appreciate and embrace your own traditions, or to explore and learn about the traditions of other cultures. Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to you all!  

References:

ONLY IN THE PHILIPPINES - Google Arts & Culture. (n.d.). Google Arts & Culture. https://artsandculture.google.com/story/only-in-the-philippines-center-for-art-new-ventures-sustainable-development-canvas/zgXRkeopr5qoJQ?hl=en

If I Complete the Simbang Gabi, Will my Wish be Granted? (2022, December 9). Dominus Est PH. https://www.dominusest.ph/post/if-i-complete-the-simbang-gabi-will-my-wish-be-granted

McCall, M. O. (n.d.). Gifts unwrapped: The history of Christmas presents. Gifts International. https://www.giftsinternational.net/knowledge-hub/guide/gifts-unwrapped-the-history-of-christmas-presents