Category: Holidays

Christmas · Narrative · Non-Fiction · Prose · Writing True

Christmas Around the World: A Tapestry of Joy and Tradition

AinaBalagtas2 Comments
Courtesy of Pexels

Christmas, like a timeless melody, has been sung through the centuries, weaving its harmonies into the hearts of people across the globe. It is more than a celebration—it is a story of light, resilience, and unity. Born in the humble glow of a manger in Bethlehem, this holiday transcended borders and cultures, carrying with it the promise of peace and goodwill to all.

Christmas’ origin can be trace back to the early Christians who honored the birth of Jesus Christ as the beacon of their faith. Over time, the celebration absorbed local customs like threads in a rich tapestry, blending the sacred with the cultural. In medieval Europe, it thrived despite winter’s icy grip, bringing warmth through communal feasts and carols sung in flickering candlelight. Today, that spirit endures, stretching across continents, languages, and traditions, creating a kaleidoscope of customs as unique as the stars scattered across the winter sky.

Christmas in Europe

In Germany, where the Christmas tree was born, homes glow with twinkling lights and the scent of evergreen. Advent calendars mark the days leading to Christmas, each door revealing a small gift or sweet treat—a ritual echoing the anticipation of the Nativity. In England, the yuletide crackle of a Christmas pudding aflame recalls both warmth and celebration, while carolers fill the air with hymns as timeless as the season itself.

In Italy, La Befana, a kind witch, delivers gifts on Epiphany, symbolizing the Magi’s journey to the Christ child. Midnight Mass draws families to ancient churches, their spires lit against the night sky, as bells toll the miracle of Christ’s birth.

Christmas in the Americas

Across the Atlantic, the Americas paint Christmas with vibrant hues. In Mexico, Las Posadas reenacts Mary and Joseph’s search for shelter, culminating in joyous feasts and piñatas bursting with candy. In the United States, Christmas is a dazzling spectacle of lights, parades, and the sound of sleigh bells—an ever-evolving blend of traditions reflecting its melting pot of cultures.

In Canada, the frosty air hums with the laughter of ice skaters, while in Brazil, the summer sun shines over Ceia de Natal, a feast rich in tropical flavors. Christmas in the Americas is a symphony of contrasts, yet its melody is always one of togetherness and joy.

A rich and diverse Christmas in Asia and Africa

In the Philippines, the Simbang Gabi dawn masses usher in the season, with lanterns lighting the way, symbolizing the Star of Bethlehem. In Japan, Christmas takes a more commercial form, with sparkling displays and a quirky tradition of feasting on Kentucky Fried Chicken—a testament to cultural adaptation.

In Africa, Christmas often blends Christian rites with traditional rhythms. In Ghana, drumming and dancing fill the air, while in South Africa, families gather for summer picnics under blue skies, a celebration of both faith and the earth’s bounty.

The Eternal Flame of the Yuletide Season

What unites these diverse and enduring traditions is not the way they are celebrated, but the spirit they embody. Christmas endures because it resonates with something universal—the desire for light in the darkness, for connection amid isolation, for giving as an act of love, of kindness, and thoughtfulness.

Like a tree rooted deep yet adorned with unique ornaments, Christmas draws strength from its history while flourishing in its infinite forms. It reminds us that while the customs may differ, the heart of the holiday—a celebration of hope, love, and unity—remains the same.

As we marvel at how Christmas touches every corner of the world, may we cherish its enduring magic. It is a season that belongs to everyone, a testament to humanity’s capacity to create beauty, share joy, and uphold traditions that span not only from generation to generation but the entire globe.

To conclude, I have the highest regard and reverence to all religions. However, modesty and bias aside, Christmas is a timeless celebration amongst us, Catholic and Christians alike. An enduring centuries-old tradition that brings people together, unites families, tightens bonds among friends and kin, thereby creating heartwarming memories. Most importantly, Christmas is an abiding proof that if people choose—and only if they choose hope and love—peace becomes attainable: Indeed, achieving the very elusive peace is conquerable—but only if we have the will. We must not give up pursuing it.

A very merry Christmas to y’all!

YouTube/Lea Michele/It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year
Christmas · Fiction · Short Story

A Christmas Turnaround

AinaBalagtas6 Comments

The cold seeped through the cracks of their tiny shelter, a weathered tent pitched in a corner of the city where few dared to venture. Inside, Henry and Maria held their three children close, each wrapped in layers of donated blankets. Henry had been laid off months ago, and his part-time airport job barely covered necessities. Maria worked long hours at a fast-food chain for minimum wage, but between the two of them, it was never enough. They relied on welfare and food banks to scrape by, and Christmas this year was no different—just another reminder of their struggles.

The kids, resilient and hopeful, spent their days at school, determined to rise above their circumstances. Tonight, though, as Christmas Eve approached, they had no tree, no presents, and no feast. Henry kissed their foreheads before heading out for his night shift at the airport, a twelve-hour stretch that paid little but promised a few extra dollars to keep them afloat.

A Life-Changing Discovery

It was near midnight when Henry noticed the lone baggage, a sleek black suitcase abandoned near the terminal’s waiting area. His instincts told him to walk away—he had seen enough movies to know unclaimed luggage could spell trouble. But something compelled him to pick it up and carry it to security.

“Someone’s going to need this back,” Henry told the officer on duty, brushing off any thoughts of opening it.

Hours later, just as he was finishing his shift, he was called back to the terminal. A man in an expensive suit stood by the security desk, holding the suitcase. His eyes lit up as soon as he saw Henry.

“You’re the one who found this?” the man asked, extending his hand.

“Yes, sir. I just did what anyone would do,” Henry replied humbly.

The man chuckled, shaking his head. “Not everyone would. Look, this suitcase means life to me—important documents, contracts, things I can’t replace. You’ve saved me from serious trouble.” He reached into his pocket and pulled out a thick envelope. “I’d like to give you this as a token of my gratitude.”

Henry stepped back, hands raised. “Sir, I was just doing my job. I can’t take that.”

The man studied him for a moment, then said, “Okay. How about this: Come work for me. Full-time. You’ve got integrity, and I need people like you.”

Henry’s throat tightened, his vision blurring. “A full-time job? You mean it?”

“Absolutely,” the man said, pressing the envelope into Henry’s hand anyway. “And take this for tonight. Call it a Christmas bonus.”

A Christmas to Remember

When Henry returned to the tent, his family huddled together, trying to stay warm. “Maria,” he whispered, shaking her gently awake. “Wake up. I’ve got news.”

Maria stirred, rubbing her tired eyes. “What is it, Henry?”

With a wide grin, he held up the envelope. “This man I met at work gave me some money. And… he offered me a full-time job.”

Her eyes filled with tears as she embraced him. “A full-time job? Henry, are you serious?”

“I am,” he said, his voice trembling. “And with this money, we can finally get out of here. We can find a little apartment. But tonight… let’s celebrate.”

Minutes later, the family was walking into McDonald’s, the neon lights casting a warm glow on their faces. The kids dove into their meals with unrestrained joy, savoring every bite as if it were a feast fit for kings.

Henry reached across the table, taking Maria’s hand. “We’re going to be okay,” he said. “God’s been watching out for us.”

Maria wiped her tears with a napkin, smiling through her sobs. “Praise God. Isn’t He so good?”

Henry grinned, the weight of months of hardship lifting from his shoulders. “Pa para pa pa,” he said, his voice brimming with gratitude. “I’m lovin’ it.”

This Christmas, the meal may have been simple, but it was seasoned with hope and grace. And for the first time in a long while, the family felt the magic of Christmas—proof that even in the darkest moments, light finds a way.

Christmas · Holidays · Non-Fiction · Poems

The True Spirit of Christmas

AinaBalagtas1 Comment
‘‘Tis the season of giving.

In alleys cold where shadows creep,
Where hearts are heavy, dreams asleep,
A lonely soul, a child, a face—
Christmas feels like a far-off place.

No tree to light, no gifts to share,
No stockings hung with tender care.
Just frigid nights and hunger’s sting,
A season stripped of joy it brings.

In beds where sickness holds its reign,
Through whispered prayers and quiet pain,
The yuletide glow feels faint, unsure,
As time stands still without a cure.

And yet, beyond the glistening halls,
The wreath-clad doors, the banquet calls,
The truth of Christmas softly pleads:
It’s born in love, not gilded deeds.

For every child, a toy should gleam,
A tiny spark, a cherished dream.
For every soul, a gift of cheer,
A gentle hug, a listening ear.

The warmth of meals, the joy they share,
Should circle wide, should show we care.
For Christmas magic, pure and true,
Lives not in things, but what we do.

So let us pause, reflect, extend
Our hands to stranger, foe, and friend.
For Christmas must be shared by all,
The great, the meek, the big, the small.

And in that giving, love will grow,
Its radiant light, a steady glow.
A world united, hearts made whole—
This is Christmas, its truest soul.

YouTube/Amy Grant/Grown Up Christmas List
Christmas · Holidays · Non-Fiction · Poems

The Heart of Christmas

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Courtesy of Pexels

Beneath the twinkle of the lights,
Beyond the snow-capped, starry nights,
There lies a truth both pure and clear:
Christmas lives in hearts sincere.

It’s not the gold, the gifts, the store,
Nor wreaths that hang on every door.
It’s found in love, in acts of grace,
In every kind and gentle face.

A whispered prayer, a hand held tight,
A beacon glowing through the night—
These are the gifts that heaven sends,
Binding strangers, family, friends.

The manger’s child, the holy start,
A Savior born to heal each heart.
Through him, the weary world may find
A peace that warms all humankind.

So let this season’s message ring:
Of hope reborn, of angels’ wings.
May Christmas’ warmth, like candle’s glow,
Touch every heart and softly grow.

For Christmas isn’t bought or sold,
It’s love’s pure light, more prized than gold.
A gift eternal, vast and true—
May it forever dwell in you.

YouTube/Stevie Wonder/Someday at Christmas
Fiction · Holidays · Humor · Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving Shenanigans

AinaBalagtas5 Comments
I wonder how many people are flustered during Thanksgiving Day for not cooking a roasted turkey to perfection. I know one; but I am sure there are lots out there. Happy Thanksgiving everyone!

Thanksgiving’s here, let’s gather ‘round,
Where chaos and laughter are always found.
The turkey’s roasting, the pies are set,
The kitchen’s a battlefield—full of regret.

Grandma’s making her famous yams,
But no one will touch them (except Uncle Sam).
The stuffing is salty, the gravy’s a lump,
And Grandpa’s asleep before his first chomp.

The kids are screaming, “When can we eat?”
As crumbs from the crackers litter their seat.
The dog steals a roll, the cat takes a leap,
And Mom yells, “This house is a disaster heap!”

When finally, the feast is ready to start,
We bow our heads with warmth in our heart.
“Thank you for family, and all this food…”
(But please, no more yams—we’re just being rude!)

The meal commences, the forks start to clatter,
As politics and football begin the chatter.
Grandma shushes, “Let’s keep it light!”
But Dad’s debating until late in the night.

Then pie is served—it’s pumpkin and pecan,
And cousins fight over the last flan.
Laughter erupts, the evening is saved,
Despite the chaos, we’re all well-behaved.

So here’s to Thanksgiving, that annual feast,
Where love reigns supreme (even if turkeys are deceased).
It’s messy and loud, but let’s not forget,
The best memories are the ones we don’t regret!

Creative · Holidays · Humor · Non-Fiction · Short Story

Turkey Talk: A Thanksgiving Conundrum

AinaBalagtas7 Comments

It was the day before Thanksgiving, and Tom and Giblet, two plump turkeys, sat under the shade of a sprawling oak tree at the edge of the farm. They had overheard the farmer’s plans earlier that morning and were in the middle of an existential crisis.

“I don’t get it, Gib,” Tom said, pacing in circles. “How does a holiday about giving thanks end up with us in the oven? It’s a yearly genocide, and yet they call it gratitude!”

Giblet, reclining on a pile of leaves, shrugged. “Humans are weird like that. They celebrate by stuffing themselves full of food and then blaming the pumpkin pie for their bloated misery. But you know what’s really confusing? They call us the centerpiece of their joy. How is being roasted to a golden crisp joyful for us?”

Tom flapped his wings in exasperation. “Right?! And they say things like, ‘Let’s give thanks for our blessings’ while they’re basting us in butter! I bet no one thanks the turkey.”

“Not true,” Giblet said, smirking. “I heard a guy on TV last year say, ‘This turkey is the most tender I’ve ever had. Thank you, Tom.’ It’s probably the same Tom who was here before you.”

Tom gulped. “Well, that’s comforting. At least I’ll be remembered for my… moistness.”

The two turkeys sat in silence for a moment, listening to the sound of distant traffic and the clanging of pots in the farmhouse kitchen.

“You know,” Giblet mused, “what if humans didn’t eat turkey for Thanksgiving? What would they have instead? Tofu? Fish? Pizza?”

“Pizza?” Tom scoffed. “Imagine the chaos! Aunt Linda’s mad because Uncle Joe ordered anchovies. Cousins arguing over pineapple. No one’s giving thanks, Gib. Just civil war on a plate.”

“Exactly,” Giblet said, leaning in. “We turkeys bring people together. Think about it. Every American family strives to keep this tradition alive because we are on the menu. If it weren’t for us, Thanksgiving might just be another Wednesday.”

Tom frowned, then nodded slowly. “So, what you’re saying is… we’re like the glue that holds Thanksgiving together?”

“Precisely,” Giblet said with a smug grin. “Without us, they’d just be eating boring casseroles and arguing over football. We’re essential, Tom. Legends, even.”

Tom sighed and flopped down beside his friend. “Well, when you put it that way, I guess being roasted for the greater good isn’t the worst fate.”

“Exactly!” Giblet said, puffing up his feathers. “If humanity needs us to keep their families united, who are we to stand in the way?”

As the sun set over the farm, the two turkeys shared a moment of quiet reflection.

“You know, Gib,” Tom said, a small smile tugging at his beak, “I hope whoever eats me tomorrow goes for seconds.”

“Atta boy,” Giblet said, patting him on the wing. “Let’s make humanity thankful, one bite at a time.”

And with that, the turkeys resigned themselves to their fate—not with fear, but with a sense of purpose. After all, they weren’t just birds—they were Thanksgiving heroes.

Christmas · Holidays

Be Wearied No More

AinaBalagtasLeave a comment
“This is how the birth of Jesus the Messiah came about: His mother Mary was pledged to be married to Joseph, but before they came together, she was found to be pregnant through the Holy Spirit.”
‭‭Matthew‬ ‭1‬:‭18‬ ‭NIV‬‬
https://bible.com/bible/111/mat.1.18.NIV

Nearing. . .

What the world

Is truly needing—

Be wearied no more,

Beloved world.

Reflecting . . .

When Mary’s womb

Was divinely conceiving

The Baby Boy, who was about

To bring Earth true bundle of joy .

Consecrating. . .

On that Sacred Night,

When the Newborn Savior was sleeping —

Light and Peace

Fill the world .

Rejoicing. . .

On the hope

That the Holy Nativity brings;

For it is only through Christ

That hope becomes enduring.

Recommended Song:

Oh Holy Night by the Glee Cast