Holidays 2011

When I told my family I stopped believing in religion, my little sister actually asked me what will happen to me during Christmastime. Will I join the merriment? Will it be offensive for me to give/receive gifts?

I sat her down and talked to her.

Of course I would join in the merriment. It was the holiday season, the perfect time to spend with family, balikbayans and friends.

A belief on whether or not a savior was born more than 2000 years ago will not change the sentiments I have for the people I value and love.

Why would I be offended in giving or receiving gifts? The reason I give gifts is because I want the person I’m giving gifts to feel thought-about and cared for. I’d like to think people who give me presents have this mindset, too.

She was quite contented with my answer.

During our noche buena, we gathered around the table and held hands. While my mother was saying a beautiful prayer, I looked around and felt like seeing things this clearly for the first time. The people around me, my family—we were never bounded by religion. It has always been by love.

And this is what “Christmas” or the holidays is all about, anyway. More than the beliefs, traditions and massive consumerism, it all boils down to love, appreciation and gratitude.

I have spent my holidays the way I wanted to, with the people I wanted to be with. For that, I am grateful.

PS. Let’s help out the victims of Sendong in this season of happiness and love. Dakila is having the Ride and Rock Relief today, December 29 at Yadu & B-Side at The Collective Malugay St., Makati City. You can send your relief goods and donations there. Contact Ayeen at 0917 505 7055 for more info.