It's the start of the "ber" months once again! They say Philippines has the longest Christmas celebration ever. Well, I can't argue. September marks the joy of the Christmas season. In a few weeks time, expect colorful lanterns and blinding lights around. Christmas carols will soon be played in every place you visit. Shopping malls, towns, cities and homes will be filled with decors, big and small. News of crazy Christmas discounts and party invites will soon flood everyone's calendars! Oh, I can go on forever...
The practice might be a bit different overseas but I'm certain that most pinoys all over the world (including myself) know that September is a red flag. It elevates our moods, too. Yes, although we're far from our native land, we still have the spirit. Truth of the matter is, overseas pinoys might even be busier come September, working really hard so they can go on with their much-awaited Christmas homecoming; or so they can fill their "balikbayan" boxes (packages); or probably, so they can send more money back home. This is a usual scenario and I can personally attest to it.
The usuals (like the preps above) will never be out of place, but this year, I want it to be different and more meaningful. It may sound cliche as we've heard several times that "Christmas is more than just fancy gifts, new clothes or extravagant parties and food". I'm sure we all know this and we may often tell the same statement to kids who ask what the real Christmas is. Beyond knowledge, it is my hope to live by the real meaning of Christmas.
This year, what do I really want?
Definitely, it's not too late to start living the true essence of giving. Of course, giving is not only limited every Christmas, but it is a good legacy to do something extra special for others during the season. So as early as it is, I'd like to sort of fuel the joy of the first "ber" month by listing a few stuffs that I plan to do for Christmas. I sure need divine intervention to tick them all!
1. Make 2cubes' (my hubby's) "birthday party for a cause" bigger for the benefit of "Pamaskong Handog" (on its part 3 this year)
2. Make cupcakes for orphans (in the Phils or here in Sg if it's allowed)
3. Confess before Christmas day. (Whenever I celebrate Christmas in Sg, I missed out on confession)
4. Buy inexpensive but meaningful gifts to friends
5. Buy gifts to family (not monetary)
6. Complete the "Simbang gabi" or 9-day novena.
7. Take a good couple photo
8. Send greeting cards to special people who are miles away to let them know they're remembered
9. Get the 2013 copy of Didache
10. Smile to strangers
Watch this space. I'll keep listing...
What would you do differently?
Positive vibes for September! :)
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