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☆—A cold memory—☆

The Christmas Dilemma

Date Written: Nov 6, 2024

“The week before Christmas, when the cold air seemed to lie thickest, was the moment for carol-singing; and when I think back to those nights it is to the crunch of snow and to the lights of the lanterns on it”

By: Mada

Note: ENJOY READING!

On December 3rd of 2016....

"Instead of wreaths and egg nog, it's parols and queso de bola."

Christmas is a cherished holiday celebrated around the world, especially in the Philippines, bringing people together in a spirit of joy, warmth, and generosity. It’s a time when families gather to celebrate traditions, from decorating trees and singing carols to exchanging gifts and enjoying festive meals. Homes are filled with twinkling lights, while communities light up with decorations, making everything feel magical. Beyond the festivities, Christmas often reminds us of kindness and compassion, inspiring many to give back to others and spread holiday cheer.

10:15 AM, December 23rd

Every year, on Christmas, my family, on my father's side, all celebrate together. This tradition started on December 2016.

I was mad. At the age 9, I wasn't the most sociable pre-teen. I hated get togethers, I hated talking to people, I hated when people talked to me. It was the point in my life where I wanted to be alone most of all. I didn't like Christmas that much. Scratch that— I didn't like Christmas at all.

THE GRINCH, is what I was.

One day before, our family Christmas party, and I was mad, the party was going to be celebrated in CDO and I did not want to go. I didn't want to go at all, I thought, "We See each other all the time, why do we need this?" "We can have a simple party, why go?" I did not see the significance of having to throw a party for something so simple— for me that is.

My dress was picked, it was itchy, it was rented, I bought new shoes, my mother bought new shoes, they hurt my feet.

Every single thing irked me, everything was annoying. I did not want to go.

8:15 PM, December 24th

It was the day of the celebration. We arrived in CDO. The travel on the way here, I tried to hold myself from jumping out the car window and walking back home, but obviously I could not.

Walking in to the party venue was irksome. I wanted to go home.

I didn’t want to go to the Christmas party. I told my mom I’d rather stay at the hotel room, but she said I had to come along.

When we got there, the venue was packed with people laughing, music playing, and the smell of food. I sat in a corner by myself, hoping no one would notice me. But then my cousin came over, grinning, and asked if I wanted to help decorate cookies. Reluctantly, I joined her.

Before I knew it, We laughed as we piled on frosting and sprinkles, and soon my other cousins joined in. Everyone’s hands got messy, but somehow, I didn’t mind.

As the night went on, I found myself actually, surprisingly, having fun. We sang Christmas songs, and played games.

It hit me that Christmas was more than just a party—it was about being with people who love you, no matter what. Seeing my aunts and uncles smiling as they watched us, and seeing the smiles around me, made me realize how special this time really was.

By the end of the night, I didn’t want to leave.

Celebrating Christmas with family holds a special significance that goes beyond decorations and gift-giving. It’s a time to gather with the people who know us best, sharing memories and a spirit of togetherness that brings warmth and joy to the season. Family traditions—like decorating the tree together, preparing favorite holiday recipes. Creating memories that stay with us.

Christmas with family also reminds us of the deeper meaning of the holiday: love, kindness, and gratitude.

Being with loved ones helps us appreciate what truly matters, allowing us to slow down, reconnect, and find joy in the simple presence of each other.

THANK YOU FOR READING!