Elegance of Christmas

     

     In light of the COVID-19 outbreak, how should one celebrate Christmas this year? This new normal has opened up a whole new world of experiences and lessons for us. We are likely being urged to enjoy Christmas in all of its simplicity and purity for the second or third time in modern history. The most anticipated year was this one because it would be the first time again that people will be able to celebrate with a sense of normalcy after the two years of seclusion brought on by the Covid 19 outbreak. After surviving a pandemic and add the earthquakes that both physically and symbolically shook the lives of those affected, it wasn't surprising that there were several lavish celebrations and parties held all over the place. 

     But our celebration of Christmas should not be dampened by Covid! Let us spread more hope, peace, joy and love this season! Well, actually, during the Christmas Eve, my body felt as though it had been beaten with a hammer. Given the current situation, I was really stressed because of the Thematic Project and also the Research. But thankfully, they saved my life, my cousins. They significantly exceeded my expectations for the elegance of my Christmas. We played games, traded gifts, watched a few movies. And I loved it because I received a new Art Materials and a new sweater. If I'm being really honest, our celebration this year and previous year really don't differ that much from one another. Even yet, we were still didn't end up spending Christmas with our family members from afar. When I eventually get to see my loved ones again in person, I'll be able to offer them the biggest and warmest hugs I've ever been able to give. And, I'm glad that even though I didn't have the chance to feel my favorite person's warm presence up close, I could still feel his presence radiating right where I am. Soon enough, I'll be able to give him the warmest hugs I can give, some time when I can finally get to see him in person. I'll simply have to bring his warmth presence a little bit closer to me till then. 

     And this is where I am reminded of the birth of our Savior. I may have just come to the realization that the true meaning of Christmas may not lie in the decorations, lights, or trees, but rather in the companionship you have on the day of Christ's birth. It is a heart-warming reminder of the true reason of the season. An ethereal gift we receive from the people we appreciate the most—a priceless shared memory that stays longer than materialistic things. I don't have a lot to say about my Christmas experience, but what I do know is that spending Christmas with the people you love the most is one of its most lovely aspects. After the 2 years that had been difficult for all of us, we still cling to hope. This is a great reminder to take a moment occasionally and reflect on seemingly insignificant things. Before we even realize we're creating lasting memories, time grows and may escape us.