HB, JC

Migrants who are new in a foreign land have mixed feelings especially during the Christmas season. Old traditions stick and the absence of time-honored customs can make one homesick and lonely. In New Zealand, for instance, carolers are rare, while fireworks are banned. Christmas parties in offices are limited to finger food and drinks without a program nor presentations, just people talking among each other – and no mention about the birth of Christ.

We (TawagAwit members) numbering 20 individuals went out caroling over the weekend in Auckland – and it was a joy to see our hosts (with family and friends) with wide smiles and singing along with us. The mother of Nida Gray, one of our hosts, even whispered to me how happy she was to see and hear us – for she sorely missed hearing traditional Filipino carols (which we put together in a medley).

The funds we have raised from the caroling will be spent for the Open Gathering, an event of giving, sharing, and caring. We intend not only to sing songs, but also share food and give away gifts to as many as possible. The new migrants are our special guests and we will ascertain that they will feel "at home" with the activities we have prepared.

When Joseph and Mary were looking for a place to rest, no one gave them decent space in Bethlehem. They settled in a manger where the King of Kings was born. "And she gave birth to her firstborn son and wrapped him in swaddling cloths and laid him in a manger, because there was no place for them in the inn." (Luke 2:7) We must approach Christmas with open doors, with giving hearts. As much as Christmas is about caring for those close to us, it is also about sharing what we have to the least of our brethren not just the poor, but also the unwanted, the forgotten, the unloved. Add to that the homesick and the lonely.‘As the Scriptures say, "They share freely and give generously to the poor. Their good deeds will be remembered forever."’ (2 Corinthians 9:9)

As a gift to Jesus Christ on His birthday, let me offer this original song titled, HB, JC (Happy Birthday, Jesus Christ). It seemed not so long ago/That You were born in Bethlehem/Only a few came to know/Of that promised night so solemn// Sheltered in a manger/Cared for by Mary and Joseph/Welcomed by poor shepherds/As angels sang in worship// Chorus: Happy Birthday Jesus/You are the Father’s gift to humankind/Happy Birthday Jesus/You are the Light; You are Love Divine// Today we recall Your birth/You fill the weary world with love/With hope, charity and mirth/As You sit in the throne Above.

To all readers, my best Christmas wishes to you and your family!

by Mel Libre