13/12/2023
Just realized that it's literally 12 days before Christmas. It's exciting, but I cannot help but feel a little anxious as I realize our family gets smaller with time. Christmas for us is a time of gathering, healing, forgiveness, and laughter. Regardless of the struggles, we make it a point to be in the home where my siblings and I grew up.
Looking back, those times were so much fun! We used to have the kids lined up to get their "pamasko" on Christmas day. Unlike in other countries, Christmas Eve is not the main event; it's Christmas day itself, spent with loved ones, partying, singing our hearts out on a karaoke, and dancing until we're dead tired.
New Year's Eve is another story, but the most unforgettable moments were when my grandmother was still alive. We'd wait until the fireworks died down and the streets cleared up so we could walk to our grandma's house, eat, and party there.
It's really nostalgic, and my heart feels heavy now. Knowing that many relatives went overseas to work, and the most painful part is that some have passed away.
My dad was taken from us by the pandemic after our miscarriage, and months later, my mother-in-law passed. Losing a parent changes your life, but losing a sibling hits differently. My sister passed just before our dad did, and until now, we cannot move on; it still stings, especially during this time. I cannot imagine how much more my mom endures every time the holidays come around. My dad used to be the head of the events, and my sister used to be our banker. So on Christmas day, we cannot help but hide the pain for the sake of the kids. I think our mindset now is that Christmas is truly for the kids who deserve to enjoy every inch of the festivities, gatherings, and family time. They must earn memories more than we did because a happy childhood makes them a better person in the future.
Wishing everyone a joyful and meaningful holiday season. Let's cherish our memories and create new ones with our loved ones. โค๏ธ๐