IT’S THE SMALL THINGS

Christmas is a week away, and we are very well into the heart of celebrating the Yuletide season. As the Christmas carols play more frequently, we find ourselves singing along more merrily. After all, that is what the Christmas spirit never fails to do – at least in my case – put me in the happiest and most hopeful of moods. At this time, traditions like Simbang Gabi have already commenced, and unlike last year where all of it was done virtually, churches are again ready to welcome mass goers who believe in this tradition of Aguinaldo. For years, I was one of them, and I remember that on years we spent Christmas away from home, it was definitely a tradition I missed, and living on the other side of the world at the moment, I continue to miss. Anticipated mass like they do over here is just not quite the same. There is something about the early morning waking up amidst the hustle and bustle of the season, and the cool December breeze that is inexplicable and makes it all the more solemn.

Christmas for me has always been for and with family. And although Christmases of the past when my grandparents were still alive were much bigger, and along the years some celebrations varied from others, for 31 years of my life, 31 Christmases that is, I have spent it with no one else.

At this time of pandemic when travel is not as simple as it once was, I have come to realize that being able to celebrate the “most wonderful time of the year” with ones family is in and of itself a privilege and a luxury – another small thing we may have overlooked and taken for granted in the past, but that we never should.

In the past few months, I have heard much too many stories of OFW’s and the like who have planned for months on end a trip back home, just to find out that it can no longer push through because of evolutions in COVID-19, and restrictions that come along with it. These days, it is not enough to be able to save up for a ticket to fly half way across the world to be with family. It is now as much about faith, prayer, and really the timing to be able to do so. Fate almost plays as big a role in enabling it these days. So for those of us who are blessed to be with family, let us not forget to savor every moment of it, and be grateful for the opportunity.

And that is something about tradition that I have learned to cherish. Despite all the craziness going on in our lives and in the world, it gives us a moment to spare and forget all the momentary problems. It gives us the familiarity we unknowingly long for and seek, but that our very being needs. It provides us the comfort and security – the hopefulness that everything can, should, and will be alright. As the years have gone by, I have found that what truly gives me happiness and contentment have evolved quite drastically from the shallow and menial things that once did. These days, being in the presence of my loved ones, all together in one room, knowing everyone is safe, sound, and healthy, is all I really need. Being able to look forward to many more moments to turn into memories with them in the years to come.

So wherever you may find yourself this holiday season, and whoever you may choose to spend it with, do remember to take a moment to pause. To savor what is around you, and be grateful for it. Before we know it, another year would have passed us by, so while we can, make the most out of every moment and make memories to last a lifetime.