As the years passed, the landscape of Christmas changed. The belief in Santa Claus evolved, and the dynamics of our family gatherings shifted. There were years when we couldn't all be together, when the exchange of gifts was modest, and the festivities were subdued. Yet, the spirit of Christmas remained undiminished by these changes.
Every Christmas celebration is unique. We had several Christmas parties at school, parties with friends, and an exclusive celebration with the family.
Although the Christmas season is unique and extravagant, I have always remembered the real essence of celebrating Christmas: to give, share, and love one another—virtues instilled in my mind.
Celebrating Christmas is beyond values and virtues. More than the party, the gifts, and the food, it is the time to remember the birth of the Lord Jesus Christ.
As Christians, we have attended mass on Christmas Eve to commemorate His birth and to pray for blessings and abundance.
Moreover, Christmas is an excellent opportunity to reunite with loved ones, heal broken hearts, and forgive. This is in preparation for opening our hearts to receive many more incredible blessings for the coming of a new year. A more fulfilled life comes after an open heart—a giving and loving heart. Likewise, success is short-lived and never measured by how many material things we possess.
I've come to realize that true fulfillment transcends mere happiness. It's about how we live our lives, our impact on others, and our sacrifices for the greater good. These are the spiritual practices that define a life of fulfillment, echoing the virtues of Christ.
Although I won't be able to celebrate this Christmas with my family, I still feel connected to them. I don't have to feel lonely in a foreign land, knowing they live a good, content life with a sense of fulfillment.
I may be far away, but the spirit of Christmas is still there. There is no reason to be homesick or sad, but there is always a reason to smile and celebrate with people closer and dear to us.
This Christmas is, above all, and from a deeper perspective, about Jesus Christ. Hence, we must remember how to share indiscriminately, give heartily, and love unconditionally.
Christmas, as celebrated all over the world, would remind us to live with our responsibility beyond what we call being Christian and the virtues it has taught us should be practiced the whole year round, and that Christmas, regardless of race, creed, and religion, or spiritual affiliation will always be in our hearts forever.
© 2011 Del Cusay
