IT'S THE SMALL THINGS
And the hymn rings true! Christmas is looming about. The rush, and holidaze is so real. The streets are decked out in lights, nights are filled with tree lightings one after the other, the carols and tunes are playing on the radio, merchandise have taken precious shelf space, Christmas parties are beginning, and the Christmas lists are being written out. It has been a while since I have been home to enjoy the full season of a Filipino Christmas — meaning, since September. Since I lived abroad the past three years, we would make it home a few weeks before. And though there will never be any Christmas like one here at home, I am reminded of that all the more so this year.
Christmas this year though is undoubtedly extra special. It is the first one for my baby boy. Though he is still a bit too young to fully understand the concept of it, seeing his eyes light up in excitement and wonder when he sees the lights and decorations makes the magic of the season become even more true. It is really the smallest things that take up the biggest space in your heart, and being able to appreciate Christmas this year from the eyes of a child makes me see things in a different light. I know that as he grows up, and the holidays will become even more special (and hectic) because of the tradition of gift-giving. Needless to say, I am determined to savor every stage, and I look forward to appreciating Christmas from a different perspective here on forth.
When I think about the true meaning of the season, the birth of Our Lord Jesus Christ is always what comes to mind, of course. Beyond that, however, I am beginning to realize that it is the genuine love stemming from that very essence that emits a ray of positivity and cheer inevitably with the season. There is a happiness in the air. There is a spirit of giving that makes people feel remembered and loved. There is the extra effort to come together, to be with family, to make merry, and to celebrate. And if only for that – the spirit of Christmas – the longest holiday season in the world should be savored and celebrated year round.