Love in the time of Christmas

You know it is Christmas time when malls open until midnight and there are carolers everywhere. The streets are filled with lights that blink to the timing of music that we hear on a yearly basis. Indeed, it is the most wonderful time of the year.

As I tried to stroll through the mall on a weekend, I was more stressed at the people who were lining up for the cashier. Others were fighting over the choice on what to give their family members; a choice that seemed to spell the verdict of their relationship when they exit the store. There is no joy there.

I have learned in Church that the true meaning of Christmas is the birth of Jesus Christ who came to save us. It was the Almighty's full expression of love to mankind by letting his son dwell with us. That love has sparked into happiness which could not be explained, so that we must all share with one another. But in this time of Christmas where we are faced with multiple problems - fire victims, a looming storm and whatnot, how can we find love there?

Indeed, it is hard to give a big exhale and smile in this when love couldn't be found amidst the many storms and trials. Even over the littlest of things, we argue and fight, thereby losing the essence of why we should be in one family or in fostering a relationship. But I guess deep down we can all find that peace in our hearts, which will help us tame all other emotions that make it otherwise.

As I grew older, the essence of Christmas is not the many gifts that we receive this season but on how we translate God's love to others. In fact, I have reached a point in my life where I find gifts useless but would rather spend time with those who are important to me. This is reality, time has become more precious; an abstract concept that has become so rare and expensive to have.

Now we are nearing the close of the year, and Christmas is here - I hope that we find its true meaning in our hearts and in the many situations that we will be encountering today. There is no such thing as a perfect Christmas, but we can all try to remember God's love in everything that we see and do. Have a wonderful time today.