The festive season has always held a special place in my heart. For years, I’ve cherished the warmth of Christmas at home, surrounded by loved ones and the comforting traditions that have made this time of year so joyous. However, last year marked a departure from the norm—a deliberate choice to break away from the familiar and seek a different kind of Christmas experience.
It was a decision sparked by a conversation with my dear friend Luke. We found ourselves contemplating destinations, scouring the map for a place that would be distinctly unlike home. With the limitations imposed by my passport, the options were somewhat restricted. Yet, in the midst of this search, an unconventional idea blossomed—to spend Christmas in the Holy Land, the birthplace of the very essence of this celebration.
Choosing to spend Christmas away from home was a departure from tradition, a step into the unknown. The prospect of celebrating in the land where Jesus was born held a profound allure. However, what ensued was unexpected. Despite being amidst the historical significance and spiritual resonance of the Holy Land, there was an unshakeable feeling of solitude.
Alone in a place so steeped in history and significance, I found myself scrolling through images on my phone—familiar faces, cherished moments captured in family photos from gatherings I had opted to forego. It was a poignant reminder of the warmth of home and the irreplaceable joy of being surrounded by loved ones during this season.
In contrast, Christmas in the Philippines is a vibrant tapestry of traditions and celebrations, unique in its exuberance and communal spirit. It’s a season that unfolds like a grand spectacle, marked not just by a day or two but by months of preparation and festivity. The country boasts one of the longest Christmas celebrations, where the air is thick with carols, colorful parols adorn homes, and the aroma of traditional Filipino dishes fills the air.
This year, as I find myself back home for Christmas, the contrast is stark. The appreciation for the familiar traditions—the excitement of the pre-Christmas buzz, the vibrant gatherings with family and friends—is heightened. The realization dawns that perhaps the allure of the unknown and the desire to break away from tradition was, in itself, a testament to the profound significance of home and the sense of belonging it offers.
In the Philippines, Christmas isn’t just a holiday—it’s a default family reunion. It’s that time of the year when family members scattered across the globe make their way back home, converging to create a tapestry of love, laughter, and shared moments. The warmth of these gatherings, the stories exchanged, and the sense of togetherness form the heart of what makes Christmas in the Philippines truly special.
This Christmas, as I embrace the familiarity of home, I hold a newfound appreciation for the traditions that define this season in my country. The warmth of reunions, the cheerful chaos of family gatherings, and the joyous cacophony of laughter are irreplaceable reminders of the essence of Christmas—love, connection, and the beauty of being surrounded by those who matter most.
Running away for Christmas taught me more than just the allure of adventure—it underscored the immeasurable value of home, family, and the cherished traditions that make this season a truly magical time.
