This year, the true essence of the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ seems to have been clouded again with more commercialism than the previous years. With the innovation of high end and more expensive toys, blings and other material things that we can't seem to get enough of, who will not be consumed with the 'holiday high'?
Yes, we're humans after all. But I still believe that after all the gifts have been given, received and unwrapped, the successful traditional binge on sumptuous food and wine, in our hearts lie the joy of being able to share in many ways this season, no matter how great or small it may be.
We spent our Christmas eve with a simple dinner. The gift giving had been scheduled the following day, when all family members and relatives are expected to be present. On Christmas morning, the Little Lady eagerly woke up early to do the traditional gift giving to kids in our neighborhood.
My Mom, who is one of the most generous and charitable persons I know, started this tradition many years ago. She never fails to remind us the true spirit of the season by giving back a part of what we have as a way of sharing to the Church and the community. This is something that I want to pass on to my little girl - the virtue of generosity.
Some of you may think this is already a late greeting. Well technically, it's still Christmas until the Feast of the Three Kings next year, so we can still greet each other, share and spread the love of this festive season. :)
From our family to yours, a blessed Christmas and a peaceful new year 2009!
