I started writing this essay in 2010 and it’s supposed to be an entry for a Christmas essay contest. But for whatsoever reason, it was left unfinished. I’m glad though that the barely complete write-up has been saved elsewhere and while searching for something from my old files a few months before Christmas, this one showed up. I was delighted seeing it and suddenly, I had an idea for a Christmas blog post. So I tried finishing the piece and added some fresh info to make it more relevant. After almost 10 years, here it is now!
The Baguio Christmas Air
There is nothing new with the cold climate in the City of Baguio since this is being felt throughout the year. But there is something special with the cool breeze of December like what we are experiencing now. Even in other provinces of the Cordillera shrouded with hot temperatures, people began to shiver in coldness. Thick jackets, bonnets, and socks which are long kept in the closet become the fashion of people elsewhere.
Christmas trees and lanterns brighten almost every corner at night time. Christmas gifts and cards are made special for everyone’s family and loved ones. Christmas songs echo in most places if not the people singing such themselves and Christmas caroling groups have begun serenading each and every house. Families and groups of individuals flock to churches for simbang umaga/gabi. Relatives and friends abroad and from other places manage to come home to celebrate the festive season with their families. Indeed, Christmas is here!
An Enchanting Christmas in Baguio
One month before Christmas day, the City of Baguio led by Mayor Benjie Magalong, in partnership with The Baguio Tourism Office, launched a 40-day program with the theme “An Enchanting Baguio Christmas,” packed with exciting events and festive activities to commemorate the Yuletide season.
Light shows, Christmas fairs, and concerts are just some of the things we can expect from it. At the very heart of the affair is the European-inspired Christmas market called Baguio Christmas Fair that was set up in the Rose Garden. It kicked off at the launching of the program and it is the first in the Philippines and third in Asia. An Enchanting Christmas Baguio will run through November to January 6, 2020.
What Christmas Truly Means
Christmas is more than the material symbols we see. Sure these tangible objects play a key role in how we celebrate the special occasion and they significantly add to the joyous vibe of Christmas. But it’s our heart’s intention for doing these – exchanging gifts, giving Christmas cards, sharing blessings, making Christmas decors, caroling, etc. – that speaks truly of what Christmas means. And if Christmas is about giving, forgiving, and loving, then let’s make it a daily celebration instead of having it only once a year. Doing this allows us to rekindle the light within our hearts and let it shine brightly throughout the year.
Also, since Jesus Christ is the very reason for the season and if we let Him live in our hearts at all times, it’s quite easy for us to celebrate Christmas every day! Here’s a fitting song to listen to from the legendary singer Kenny Rogers for us to stay more inspired. Merry Christmas! 😊
Significant Difference 