CHRISTMAS SEASON: ITS ESSENCE AND ITS SIMPLICITY

    

    Christmas is celebrated on December 25 and is both a sacred religious holiday and a worldwide cultural and commercial phenomenon. It is the most wonderful time of the year because we can celebrate the birth of Jesus. Christians celebrate Christmas Day as the anniversary of the birth of Jesus of Nazareth, a spiritual leader whose teachings form the basis of their religion. Before covid-19 hit our country, it was really fun celebrating Christmas with our families and friends, exchanging gifts and stuff but when the spread of covid-19 occurred, everything changed. Each year families get together, some visit their friends, and indulge in memorable parties to celebrate the birth of Lord Jesus Christ. The Festival of Christmas is a time of joy and warmth, surrounded by the love of family members and the comradery of friends. 

     Celebrating Christmas during the pandemic requires us to follow health protocols. We are encouraged to celebrate the Christmas season in its essence and in its simplicity. We are discouraged from visiting one another for our mutual protection and safety. The usual Christmas glee and merriment that we have been accustomed to is not possible this year. Covid spreads through gatherings, and we are especially vulnerable during holidays, when we may be tempted to leave our homes to visit others. We must resist this temptation and instead stay safely at home this year. Before the pandemic hit our country, our barangays used to be so lively. Young people like me go outside and do caroling with friends. I remember that time when we were chased by a dog, it was really fun doing such things. Celebrating Christmas with our families and friends really is fun and exciting.  It is sad to think that we can't go outside and do caroling, exchange gifts with our classmates in school, and go to our ninongs and ninangs to ask for gifts but the sacrifices we make now will protect us, our loved ones, and our communities. 

    During this festive season of giving, let's take time to slow down and enjoy the simple things. We can still celebrate, have fun, and give love but we must still follow the health protocols.   May this wonderful time of the year especially touch our hearts. Wishing you much happiness not just today, but throughout the New Year. Come together so that we can go back to doing the things we enjoy, with the people we love. Let the magic of love brighten our smiles and enlighten our souls. Merry Christmas to all of you and to the loveliest person I know!

References/Sources:https://www.fnha.ca/about/news-and-events/news/celebrating-christmas-during-the-covid-19-pandemic

https://su.edu.ph/reflections/celebrate-christmas-amidst-the-covid-19-pandemic/

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