I tend to agree with the Andy Williams song: “It’s the most wonderful time of the year.” While other people may not have nice things to say about the Christmas season, the point is that it is, indeed, the best time of the year. Top of mind among the things that make this season special is the generally good mood of people, brought about by the religious and cultural traditions of Christians celebrating with Christmas decorations, parties, family get-togethers, gift-giving, night masses, Noche Buena, and many other festivities.

There are many other, more practical reasons for this Christmas joy. First is that we enjoy much milder and cooler weather, giving us a little freedom from the harsh heat of the summer months and relief from the monsoon rains, typhoons, and flooding. This allows people to have a pleasant walk at night on streets that are neither muddy nor dusty, and for me, it’s a great time to play golf!

The Philippines, along with a handful of other countries, mandates the payment of a 13th-month pay, which benefits most workers, including SSS pensioners. This, in turn, provides people with the spending money to buy gifts, host parties, and take care of the other needs of the season. Of course, this is also the time of the year when bonuses on top of the 13th-month pay are handed out, providing even more cash into the economy.

This is also the best chance you will get to catch up with old friends and relatives you haven’t seen in a while, given the number of parties and reunions scheduled during this time of the year. You never know who you will run into and what possible opportunities may arise from such encounters. As you get older, you appreciate getting together and chatting about the good old days. You may also end up meeting new friends and perhaps upgrading acquaintances into buddies. A truly delightful experience is running into someone you have lost touch with or even thought had passed away, only to find out that they are doing quite well and are equally happy to see you.

Buy yourself something you have always wanted. Christmas is a great excuse to splurge on yourself. Pamper yourself with a spa treatment or travel somewhere you have always wanted to go. Take the day off and light up that Cuban cigar, open the 40-year-old single malt you have been saving for a special occasion, and live a little. Try out that fancy restaurant you have always wanted to go to. I am not asking you to spend your entire life savings in a day, but in relative terms, only what you can afford.

Celebrate the good things you have done in your life, what you have done for yourself, your family, your community, and other people. First of all, the fact that you are still alive and kicking is reason enough to be happy. If you have any regrets in your life, face up to them and correct what you can. Learn how to apologize and express regret for the bad things you have done, and make amends. Don’t carry this burden with you for the rest of your life. But then again, don’t feel guilty about things that are not your fault. A few years ago, in certain Christian countries, it was considered inappropriate to say “Merry Christmas,” and they could only say “Happy Holidays.” I am glad to hear that is no longer the case. Merry Christmas to you all!