The heart of Christmas

Christmas in the Philippines has a ‘yin yang’ effect, a good balance of life. As we enjoy the colorful decorations, parties, food and gifts, we are equally reminded to share our blessings with those in need: the sick, the hungry and the homeless.

On the first week of December our island was threatened by Typhoon Ruby. Those in the Visayas were not spared. These natural calamities give us a ‘yin yang’ effect – the storm before the calm; despair before comfort; giving before receiving. They surely come as strong reminders to all of us, a cleansing of the spirit for the nation.

I would like to believe that Filipinos have a genuine spirit for helping others. We care for our loved ones and for others. Even politics cannot influence our actions when it comes to these traits. Truly, Pinoys are warm, affectionate, thoughtful, loving, and happy people. Christmas brings family and friends together. It helps us show our love for one another, something we often fail to do.

I remember one Christmas when a family invited guests to spend Christmas in their home. Aside from the relatives, there were balikbayans, foreigners and friends. The house was open to all and everyone felt the joy of the season because happiness enveloped the whole household. Come to think of it, this is typical of almost every household whether it is Christmas, New Year or any holiday. We always find a reason to gather and enjoy each other’s company.

When I was a student in America for seven years, I remember spending Christmas with different Filipino families each year. The Filipino spirit surely brought good cheer to me especially during those years when I had no family to spend it with abroad.

Coming from a Roman Catholic family, we were raised to see the beauty of caring, sharing and giving. Being thoughtful is also a special gift Pinoys possess. It is such a wonderful feeling to sincerely want to help others. The life of Jesus is filled with virtues we strive to imbibe in our hearts. The power of prayer is another thing. And this is what makes us a strong Catholic nation.

In a few days we celebrate the birth of our Savior Jesus Christ. This “holy” day reminds us to live a simple yet meaningful life. As we prance around town in our colorful holiday outfits, our subconscious mind keeps us grounded and reminds us how Jesus was born. He was born in a manger wrapped in swaddling clothes, sans all the luxuries in life. Yet, the Three Kings from the East honored him with gold, frankincense and myrrh. They came from afar to honor this little baby.

How I wish our leaders learn to live the way Jesus did or follow the humility of the Three Wise Men for that matter. They seem to be following the footsteps of Herod and Pontius Pilate. I must admit that many times my hope is shattered by the failure of our leaders to do good; by the corrupt practices of many public officials; by the disservice of government officials that continue to create difficulties in our daily lives; and by the filth and poverty we see around us.

This Christmas, we should pray for our President and for our country: God of power and might, wisdom and justice, through You authority is rightly administered, laws are enacted, and judgment is decreed. Assist with Your spirit of counsel and fortitude our president and other government officials. May they always seek the path of righteousness, justice and mercy. Grant that they may be enabled by your powerful protection to lead our country with honesty and integrity.

We pray that our leaders may rid themselves of greed, power and might and that all personal strife among them will end so that they can accomplish the tasks at hand for the country.

Let us not forget those who suffered the wrath of natural calamities. Our brothers and sisters who continue to mourn the death of their loved ones, those without food, clothing and shelter, those who still wander around flattened cities and towns looking for familiar places and faces, and those who are left with nothing. We pray that they be relieved of the pain and that this Christmas may give them hope and the strength and courage to rise again and rebuild their lives.

I came across a beautiful prayer from New York Life Insurance Company, “Looking Into the Days to Come.” I want to share this with you as it really fits the season’s message: “Let us pray that strength and courage abundant be given to us who work for a world of reason and understanding. That the good that lies in every man’s heart may day by day be magnified; that men will come to see more clearly not that which divides them, but that which unites them; that each hour may bring us closer to a final victory, not of nation over nation, but of man over his own evils and weaknesses; that the true spirit of this Christmas season, its joy, its beauty, its hope, and above all its abiding faith, may live among us; that the blessings of peace be ours, the peace to build and grow, to live in harmony and sympathy with others, and to plan the future with confidence.”

Former US President Ronald Reagan’s 1981 Christmas message also gives us a gentle reminder of the meaning of Christmas: On Christmas, we celebrate the birth of Christ with prayer, feasting, and great merriment. But, most of all, we experience it in our hearts. For, more than just a day, Christmas is a state of mind. It is found throughout the year whenever faith overcomes doubt, hope conquers despair, and love triumphs over hate. It is present when men of any creed bring love and understanding to the hearts of their fellow man. The feeling is seen in the wondrous faces of children and in the hopeful eyes of the aged. It overflows the hearts of cheerful givers and the souls.”

This is the real reason for the season! Merry Christmas to all!