A break from the holiday rush

With Christmas fast approaching, the manic pace of holiday shopping and last-minute preparations preoccupies most people. Holiday tunes are played all the time, carolers are already going around and I’ve probably seen dozens of Santa Clauses. Lights are also lit at nighttime and boxes of presents are starting to pile around the Christmas tree.

It is also the season for the customary Christmas parties. This usually is the time when we forget about our diets. Indeed, it’s a season to indulge. There are countless parties to attend, left and right.

Last Dec. 14, my home agency, Mercator Artist and Model Management, held its Christmas Dinner for its staff, talents, clients, friends and members of the press. Fairly intimate, it was a gathering made extra special by sumptuous food and warm fellowship.

Usually occupied with hectic schedules, Mercator’s talents made time to grace the event. Among those present were Fabio Ide, Daniel Matsunaga (with sweetheart Heart Evangelista), JC Tiuseco, Mikael Daez, Ervic Vijandre — Mercator hunks who all have achieved fair success in show business.

Male models Benj Bolivar, Kyle Sparks, Laxie Villar and Don Mendoza, Bjorn Aguilar were also present. Miss World 2011 first runner-up — the statuesque Gwen Ruais — was also there. Certainly, it was a room filled with beautiful people!

The members of the press were also treated to a raffle draw — definitely a highlight in any Christmas party.

The food was also absolutely divine! Catered by Grand Palazzo Royale all the way from Pampanga through the generosity of Froi Cruz, it was impossible not to go for a second, third and even fourth round! There was a carving station of roast beef and turkey, a salad bar, pasta dishes and more — it makes me hungry now trying to remember everything that was served.

It was also held in Casa Pura, a business bed & breakfast in Quezon City, a charming place nestled in the heart of the Scout Area near Tomas Morato/Timog Ave. that provides travelers with a warm, intimate yet professional atmosphere.

Of course, in this season, it’s so easy to get caught up in all the parties and shopping, we might forget the real meaning of Christmas. Hopefully more than anything else, we seek to share our blessings. We must also take the time out to pause, reflect, meditate and thank our Savior for the gift of eternal life.

Amidst the hustle and bustle of Christmas, most of the time, the feeling of anticipation is only confined to children awaiting presents and holiday festivities. For most adults, it’s a time of expenses going through the roof. However, at any age, we must learn to always indulge the child in us. Look around a little longer, enjoy even the long lines and take it as an opportunity to talk and socialize with strangers — who knows, you might gain a friend or two.

It’s time to reckon about the year that was, but instead of regrets over mistakes, we must be positive and resolve to do better next time. A new year is just around the corner, we will get our chance to do things better.

It’s also the time to treasure the people God has given us to make our lives a little extra special. Let them know you care. A little thoughtful gesture will go a long way.