The Philippines is the only christian country that celebrates Christmas the longest. Beginning September, Christmas preparation already starts. One can hear Christmas Songs and see decorations for sale in the streets the first day of the "ber" months.
This tradition is unique. Sometimes, we are criticized for this. But Filipinos are proud of this tradition. For it shows how much we love Jesus and his coming to save the world from sins.
We celebrate Christmas in many ways. We have Christmas Tree which are decorated with brilliant and colorful decorations. We also have special kinds of lanterns which shows Filipino ingenuity and artistic talents. Because of this, we are proud to be Filipinos.
From the beginning of the midnight mass on December 16, we prepare and give gifts to our loved ones and to our friends. During the peak of the days of the celebration, we go caroling from house to house. We appreciate and are thankful to whatever gifts are given to us.
We cherish those gifts. And we always keep in our hearts whoever and wherever they came from. This is a very Filipino way of expressing our joy for the birth of our Savior Jesus Christ.
The true spirit of Christmas is felt from the bottom of the heart. This is the time we have to change ourselves to become a better citizen of the society. It's not about the expensive gifts to be given to others. It's not about the food to be prepare and to be serve. It's not about how beautiful the Christmas decorations to be displayed. But, it's about how we could make everybody happy through the love and the joy we bring. And that's the True Essence of Christmas! :)
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