Malditah Musings

Away for the Holidays: Tips for Celebrating a Merry Christmas Outside the Philippines

Parols brilliantly-hued light up the night sky window. Sweet, slightly burnt scent of butter melting on freshly-made cake and pu-on tube. The familiar, long Christmas tunes by a pound tight speaks shopping malls.

Christmas, my love ... It is indeed Christmastime again.

Having earned the difference between celebrating the longest Christmas season in the world, Filipinos look forward to this time of year, all year long. As early as September (the beginning of "Ber" months), one can place Christmas decorations put up in households across the country and they usually do not go down until the first Sunday in January, known as Three Kings Day, or even after that.

For Filipinos, Christmas is about togetherness. It is less material and more religious and family-oriented than other part of the world. It was never much of a commercial extravaganza as a time to practice the simple holiday traditions deeply rooted in Catholic faith-from in the ritual sponsor night, when loyal churchgoers flock to early morning mass for nine consecutive days, the merry Noche Buena, to bring families together around the Christmas table to participate in traditional Filipino delicacies like queso de balls and jamon.

Christmas, my love ...

While most Filipino Christmas songs that reflect the general spirit of this happy most expensive holiday, there are the sad songs of the season, especially for those whose loved ones are away.

Over seven million overseas Filipino workers, only a small, lucky few from the number that can fly home to spend Christmas with their families. It can be a difficult time of year, but there are ways to cope and yourself a merry little Christmas, even out the Philippines. If you have one of those people who can not take time off work or can not afford to travel all the way back to the homeland this year, do not let the holiday blues get you down. Here are some ways to get back in the swing era;

1. Choose to be happy.

Not those who love you during the holidays is difficult. It is natural to feel a little sad and homesick this time of year. The first step is to accept it and acknowledge your feelings. But no point in spending time feeling sorry for yourself. Make the effort to be happy! Do not let the picture of what the holiday a "must" command of your emotions. Take this opportunity to start some of your own traditions either side of the world you are.

2. Surround yourself with friends.

A surefire way to fight depression (at any time of year) is to spend time with friends. It is a good time to reconnect with people. Even if you are not physically home, you are not alone. Do not be shy about telling friends that you may feel the holiday blues! People are very open invitation at this time of year. Often make plans with friends to do some fun holiday activities - go see a Christmas concert, visit a Christmas market or go ice skating.

3. Get in holiday spirit.

Why block the festivities? em If you can not beat 'em, join'! Bring your yourself shopping for a new outfit to wear to a party or prepare a familiar treated like Turrón or Damn flan to share with friends. Decorating your home is another way to feel the Christmas spirit. Put up your own little tree, hang some mistletoe, string some Christmas lights in your window and throw a fabulous fete.

4. Do some volunteer work.

One way to get your mind off yourself and your problem is to do something for someone else. Rekindle your Christmas spirit by spending time with less fortunate. Many organizations need more help around the holidays. Help prepare meals in a home shelter, visit residents in a home hursing or get involved in your church's holiday activities. Sites such volunteermatch.org or servenet.org allows you to find charities in your area that need volunteers holiday just by entering your zip code giving your time to a People who really love is the best gift of all. Is not that what Christmas is about anyway?

5. Call home.

In this day and age, there are many ways to communicate with your loved ones worldwide. Buy a webcam or a Magic Jack or log on to Skype to talk for free. Let your family know that you are thinking of them. Sometimes all it takes is a familiar voice to remind you that even though it may feel like it, you're not really alone. There are many people who love you and missing you, more than you can know.

About the Author

For more information, visit FilipinoVillage.com
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Away for the Holidays