'Tis Christmas! It's the Holy Season to be Jolly!
Toronto-Canada
December 20, 2019
Christmas is in the air! Christmas is almost upon us! Christians and non-Christians alike, I am sure will dream , savour and experience its coming and what it brings to everyone. I believe that there is always a magical moment when the frosty, pine- scent emitting air touches one's face and body.
Does anyone feel now the holiness and the joy of the coming holiday season? Does anyone feel the beauty and awe of the wintry breeze all around us? The happy anticipation and preparation for this beautiful Christian tradition, for one purpose or another, is almost in feverish scale and speed amongst us.
There are many reasons why these things are happening, I think. Was it the sparkle on the early winter snow? Was it the glistening sunlight on the ice enveloped on sidewalks and icicles dripping from tree branches? Was it the early Santa Claus parade in downtown? Was it the lighting of the huge and colourful Christmas tree at the town or city square? Was it the sight of the warmly bundled-up children and their parents graciously smiling and appreciating the parade's marching bands, the creative floats, the artistic book & cartoon characters and their acrobatic exhibitions & attractive costumed suits?
Maybe it was the omnipresent sound of Christmas carols frequently playing since the 'ber months came into the heretofore cold atmosphere? Maybe it was the set up of beautifully- decorated Christmas trees in homes and stores? Maybe it was the symbolic lighting of the candles in many Christian churches welcoming in the rites of Advent? Maybe it was the never-ending excitement and smiles of children everywhere as they anticipate the arrival of Mr.Santa Claus, a.k.a, as Father Christmas in their homes loaded with presents? Maybe it was the time of being in high spirits, in good humour, and in convivial enjoyment to have individual or collegial fun, pleasure and admiration?
Whatever the rationale, there are sterling opportunities to make a difference to celebrate, share and give the gifts of love, laughter and joy. Christmastime, in true fashion, helps us to realize the best of what it means to be genuinely generous and kind to others. Wholeheartedly, one may volunteer help, donate money, or give in-kind like toys, baskets of goodies or clothing to warm the needy and the poor.
During the yuletide, as always, it is fitting and proper for reminding everyone that Jesus Christ is the centre,the heart and the raison d'etre for celebrating the wonder of the festive season. This I believe, is also the ways and means of inviting people to embrace the love of God and to honour, experience and demonstrate our faith-filled devotion and respect to our families, children, co-workers, friends and neighbours as we celebrate this centuries-old Christian tradition. And, as the "angels sing", let's altogether "hark and herald the Glory to the new-born King!" ( Tony A. San Juan, OCT-Ret.)
Feliz Navidad! Joyeux Noel! Buon Natale! Barka Da Kirisimati!
Merikurisumasu No Aisatsu! Merry Christmas! Maligayang Pasko!