There are many versions of Christmas. Because I am Christian and Catholic, I may think that there is only one way to look at and understand Christmas. But every time I spend Christmas outside the
Philippines, I observe variants in the way the local residents celebrate it – if at all. I also was shocked that many non-Christian people do not even know the fundamental story of Jesus the Christ beyond the name.
It is not about evangelization, not about convincing others that one religious feast is greater than another. Worse, it is not about a competition between religions. Christmas is one beautiful story. It merits attention and appreciation for showcasing the refinement of one’s humanity, for sharing glimpses of the nobility of the human soul. Beyond that is the concept of God giving Himself in exchange for humans in the clutches of evil.
I see in many places here the kind of bright lights that are associated with Christmas. Yet, there is a coldness about them – and I am not talking about the weather. It is the simple detachment of lights to the spirit of Christmas. There is that connection to its commercialism, I must admit. And more importantly, the atmosphere is positive as well. Even if non-Christians in Japan may not be spurred by the spiritual aspect of Christmas, there is a clear attempt to be festive.
But, in truth, Christmas is never apart from home. I would not have even thought of spending Christmas with family members. I know how much of a blessing the celebration of Christmas is with family and friends to greet, hug, and kiss – then eat media noche with. But what crowns the whole celebration is the giving, receiving, and the opening of gifts. The younger children dominate the fun, of course, and are allowed to be noisy for hours playing with their toys.
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