A Christmas Yearning

When I was young, I remember being happy getting crisp two peso bills folded inside an envelope as Christmas presents from my parents or relatives. I was very ecstatic when my godmother gave me a wooden telephone from the US when she came to visit. I was also happy to get a thermos bottle from a very close aunt or some fairy tale books from an uncle of mine. I was indeed a child.

When I grew older, the presents were basically shirts to wear or some money to spend. Being a teacher, I was showered with chocolates and baskets filled with fruit as Christmas presents. I remembered asking our driver to pick me up from school because I cannot carry the gifts by myself.

For the past Christmases, I had been lucky to receive presents, big and small from colleagues, parents of my students, or from friends. The most that I got from one Christmas was a plane ticket and it was a very generous gift. I became, like that child of many years ago.

However, the best gift for Christmas that I could ask for is still on the works. It should be coming from me and it could be cultivated with patience as I get to work for it. I long for inner peace, a kind of sanctity within myself for all that had happened and for all that is happening. I wanted a life less complicated, devoid of dramas, free of emotional baggages and bereft of fear.

As I grew older, my longing for material things diminished while my pursuit for happiness and peace became a hundredfold. May this season be one of joy for those who are sad, wealth for those who are financially lacking, positivity for those who are shrouded with negativities, love for those who are seeking, and peace for those like me who are downtrodden.

                                                             by Ken

Wishing you all a Merry Christmas and a Prosperous New Year!