The Essence of Christmas

Christmas has always been, without a doubt, the most joyful and indulgent time of the year, where families come together to celebrate the birth of Christ. It's not just about the food, but the warmth of being surrounded by the people you love. This is what makes the occasion my one of the most eagerly awaited moments of the year.

Growing up, Christmas was an event like no other. My relatives from Manila, Candon, and even those from abroad would travel just to be with us, to share in the joy, and especially, to spend time with Inang (my grandmother). Christmas used to be alive with so much laughter, chatter, and the presence of those I hold so dear. It would light up my face with a smile so bright, one that would make my cheeks ache with happiness. But time is constant. I grew up, and so did everyone else. My cousins have jobs now, and some even have their own families. Inang, too, has long since passed away. And with all this change, Christmas has become a hollow silence, one that I can almost hear echoing in every corner of our house.

Now, my Christmas always feels like there's something missing. Gone are the bright, eager faces of my cousins as they shared stories of the year gone by. No more pasalubong, carefully chosen, wrapped with love. And there are no longer smiles that fill the room as each present is opened. The absence of everyone I love has become their loudest presence, echoing in every quiet moment.

But in that silence, I began to understand what Christmas truly means for me. It’s not just about the celebration, or the gifts, or the food. It's about gathering with those you love, sharing in the grace and blessings that God has given us throughout the year. To celebrate the birth of the one who created life is to surround yourself with life itself, those who make the world brighter with their love. The essence of  Christmas, for me, is a reminder of that sacred presence that once filled our home, and still lingers in our hearts.