Happy Christmas, Hive Fam! Hope you all are having (had) a wonderful Christmas celebration with your loved ones. The day is almost over here in the desert. I managed to get homesick several times looking at several posts by the family on social media and in our group chats.
I know I have everything to be thankful for -- my little family is all well and healthy, we are content and happy. There are times though, especially on special occasions like these that I cannot help but miss how much better it could be celebrated when with our bigger family in the Philippines.
They say the Philippines has the longest Christmas season all over the world. Radios start playing Christmas songs as early as September 1st and you will also start seeing Christmas decors pop here and there.
Being in a Muslim country, it is a lot different for us. Christmas is a working day and a lot of the traditions we got used to like going caroling from house to house are non-existent.
My children have never experienced Christmas celebrations in the Philippines so whenever I share with them what our Christmas traditions are in PH, they would say, "Christmas is more fun in the Philippines!".
Another tradition that I love is the Misa De Gallo (Simbang Gabi) which is a 9-day novena mass leading to Christmas Eve. We have it here, but I never brought my children to these. Since there is only one mass per night, the church is filled by thousands of Filipino church-goers. Tagging kids along just don't seem like a good idea for me. Oh, should I say, "was" because these were all pre-pandemic and masses are now broadcast live online due to restrictions.
Seventeen! You'd think that through the years I would get used to it. However, it feels heavier to the heart each year. Being away from your family is something that you never get used to. My parents are getting older and I really wish to spend more time with them, especially my kids.
I content myself by watching their videos while having fun at mini family reunions, listening to their thundering laughter while playing parlor games, and talking to them on video chats...
Regardless, I am still thankful to the Almighty for keeping us through everything that is happening in the world. It's been harsh but we sailed through and I look forward for a better 2022.
Again, my sincerest Merry Christmas wishes to everyone. I wish you the best of the season and beyond!
*Photos from Christmas 2020.
