This is my 4th (non-consecutive though) Christmas Day away from my family. As I'm used to it already, it does not made me that sad anymore to spend my Christmas with my colleagues at work instead of my family. I remembered my first Christmas away from my family was really terrible. I cried during the Christmas Eve dinner. I still wish though that I am with my parents who are already growing old. I still wish I am with my two brothers on Christmas morning. But I need to accept my fate that I need to work and live away from them. Though we are separated, my love for them will never ever fade away. They are the one who inspire me to pray and aim for my dreams. They will always be my inspiration to do better in this life.
Last night with my colleagues, we went to Christmas Eve Mass. The trip going to the area was already an adventure as our Tuk Tuk keep turning left and right. But we arrive before the mass started at 6 o'clock so it was fine. Last year, my first Christmas in Cambodia, I got a teary eyed when I heard the Silent Night sang by the choir but now it gives me a smile and this unexplainable happiness.
Before going to church my seminarian brother called me up and it really made me happy. At 11 o'clock in the evening, my new found friend Phy also called me up. For this year, I thank God for blessing me with new friends. Some may find it weird as we have not seen each other in person but for the past six months Phy is my bestfriend and my sister. She is helps me a lot to believe in myself, believe in my dreams and she helps me cope up being away from my family.
With all the hardships the world is experiencing now, all we need to give and receive is LOVE. More than 2000 years ago, a child was born in a manger, for me it is the perfect example of love. In this time of distress, we must take time to talk to our family, friends and even strangers. Someone may need a little talk, an encouragement, a nod, or even a simple hello.
My favorite Christmas quote this year is from a popular celebrity in the Philippines.
''...if we will just realize the real essence of Christmas, every Christmas will be immeasurable...'' - gary valenciano.
Merry Christmas to everyone.Christmas will never be Christmas without Christ.
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