I'm dreaming of a White Christmas, just like the ones I used to know,"

So goes the classic White Christmas song. It makes me wonder where the singer was, at that time. Maybe in the Philippines, or in Sahara.

Yesterday I was so busy buying gift wraps. I had a hard time finding a gift wrap which is so "Pinoy" or at least culturally sensitive. Finally I found one which had a "parol" (lantern) and "Maligayang Pasko" (Merry Christmas) printed all over. But it is not glossy.

Christmas for many of us is a western idea, with evergreens, snow, reindeers and the ever jolly Santa Claus. Hence, the very reason why we celebrate Christmas is no longer the center of our celebration. Indeed, why we celebrate Christmas? 

In Pasig where I stay most of the time, there was a complete Santa House in front of the City Hall. Every night, it was lighted and the center of entertainment of the people, children and old alike dreaming of a white Christmas. The Santa and the elves were moving busy making gifts, while Mrs. Santa was checking everything. Then the finale was Sta. Claus rode off with his reindeers. It was quite entertaining. I was amazed by the simple technology!

And I wonder, In the midst of the poor community, what might be the implication of that scene? Would the poor kids think that Santa would knock on their shanties and leave gifts they want?

But at that moment, the kids were contented to have an entertainment at least until the season ends.

Indeed, why I am celebrating this season?

1. Not because everybody is celebrating and I might look odd if I don't go with the tide. I celebrate because it is the end of the year and a high time to give thanks to all the blessings that I receive throughout the year. It may sound so "pagan" but anyway, Christmas is a pagan tradition.

2. Because I have kids. Although they do not know Santa Claus and keep asking me who is he or is he real, I want them to celebrate Christmas to feel it and later on, they choose whether to celebrate it or not.

3. Because of godchildren who are waiting for the gifts.

4. Because it is a long vacation. And I need to read a lot.

*******

I almost had a white Christmas. When I was studying in Seoul, South Korea, I attended two winter semesters from 2002-2004. I was excited (as all of us from non-snowing Asian countries) to see the first snow, that I kept on checking the weather reports for the snow.

On my third day, the snow fell. It was still dark outside even though it was already 7 in the morning. Afterwards, I saw the snow falling. I was in awe. It was a beautiful sight for me... for a while.

After days of snowing, accidents were reported. I had rashes all over. I kept on sneezing! We had to adjust our classes and many more!

That was 2002. At that time, when I was in awe of the falling cottons from heaven, many Russians froze to death. It was the bleakest winter according to reports. Suicides were reported because of the depression associated with the winter and ironically of the Christmas season.

From then on, I no longer dream of a White Christmas. The baby born in a manger, known in the Christian world as Jesus was never born on winter season, otherwise he would froze to death, just like any other kids around the world who have no shelter.

Indeed, what is important in this season is the realization that we are still in this world and can make a difference to the lives of the children and people who never know Santa Claus or the joys of celebrating this season without festive foods or gifts.

To all of us, may we have a merry heart in giving this season and through all the seasons in our lives!

Happy holidays!