Celebrate Christmas everyday

Why Filipinos Should Stop Celebrating Christmas for Four Months—and Celebrate It Every Day Instead

If there's one thing that the Philippines stands out for globally, it's the unrelenting fervor by which Filipinos celebrate Christmas. The so-called "Ber months" – from September to December – spell out a season of holiday ditties, twinkling lights, and a sense of festivity that unfolds into a whole third of the year. This long Christmas celebration is beautiful and deeply rooted in the tradition of the Filipinos, but the alternative worth considering is to spread the feel and spirit of Christmas throughout the year.

The Four-Month Christmas Tradition

As soon as September comes, holiday fever grips the Philippines. Jose Mari Chan's popular carols are now heard over the airwaves. The malls start decorating with their giant Christmas trees, and families begin preparing for the much-awaited celebrations. Long anticipation of Christmas Day brings excitement and cheer but is tiring and, sometimes, overbearing.

While the Philippines proudly proclaims its long Christmas season, the fixation on the ordinary and even event-driven, materialistic aspect of Christmas may miss something much deeper—it is, after all a spirit embodied every day of the calendar year. Christmas Isn't Just a Season—It's a Way of Life

At its core, Christmas embodies values which everybody shares: love, kindness, generosity, and community festivity. Such values do not deserve to be put in just one portion of the calendar. Why Filipino people should be infused into everyday life:

1. Culture of Continuous Generosity

Christmas is a season of giving and charity. We see people who go out of their way to help others, donate to charities, and share meals with less fortunate members of society during the holiday season. What if we maintained this spirit of generosity all year round? Communities might witness an improvement in well-being and connectivity by incorporating giving as a daily lifestyle instead of an annual occurrence.

Just imagine if acts of random kindness became the norm instead of the exception-including dinner solutions, helpful hands, and uplifting words. The results would be colossal for both the recipient and the giver.

2 Building Relationships Past the Holidays

Holiday season - reunions with the family, catching up with relatives and friends, and bonding with each other. There is more to a relationship than a season of attention. We become opportunities for care and nurturing at all times of the year if we embody the spirit of Christmas. Family reunions, calls with no specific agenda, words of appreciation would make loved ones feel cared about and strengthen relationships in ways that supersede the seasonal rush.

Being there, or just listening and showing the love and appreciation each day will help build tighter emotional bonds that are far away from the last months of the year.

3. Gratitude and Positive Mental Attitude

Christmas is that period in which people focus on the positive and get thankful for what one has, and hope as a ray of the future unfolds. Why must this feel-good attitude be saved for just a few months in a year? Gratitude practiced daily enhances happiness as well as life satisfaction. When Filipinos make themselves thankful for small blessings, they can further develop their sense of joy and contentment throughout the year.

Taking a moment daily to reflect on what you are thankful for can turn your outlook and mental health around, making life easier to handle with resilience and optimism.

Christmas Every Day: How It Can Be Made to Happen

Celebrating Christmas every day is an abstract concept; however, if done with consciousness, it is possible. Here is how it can be made to happen:

1. Small Acts of Kindness

Help others not only during the holiday season but as a daily activity. Open the door for another person, assist a friend, or volunteer in community events. These small acts show the Christmas spirit all-year-round.

2. Gratitude Practice Daily

Begin each day by writing down three things you are thankful for. They might be something as simple as having breakfast with your family or being able to walk to work. That helps keep the Christmas spirit alive by staying positive and content.

3. Regular Family Time

Always find time for your family, not only during holidays. Family dinners can be weekly; game nights or Sunday picnics are all awesome ways to strengthen bonds and keep the holiday spirit burning.

4. Mindful Gift-Giving

Give an ordinary Christmas every day as gift, instead of storing in the Christmas season. And a note, small gifts, or even some help are good enough for making them feel valued. Every expression of appreciation and love reinforces relationships.

New Ever Day Christmas Tradition

Beautifully lit with full joy is the Philippines during the period of September through December, but what is an even more fulfilling and harmonious life, I'd say, when this season can extend even to months. Parties and decorations may represent Christmas, but its love, sharing, and hope define the essence of the Yuletide season.

Make Christmas part of daily life and build a culture of kindness and gratitude. It is time to shift from four months of Christmas celebrations to 365 days of its values. For it is not in the season but in the manner of dealing with each other that we can find the true spirit of Christmas. Doing so will make araw-araw ay pasko into a reality.

About mistakes and regret

True cost of errors vs. price of regret

Everyone makes mistakes. Whether it is personal, professional, or even interpersonal, error occurs. Most of us, at some point in time, are afraid to commit mistakes because of what comes with them. There's, however, one vital truth: Mistakes can cost you, but the price of regret will always be too expensive to pay. This statement, thus, deserves a lot more elaboration.

1. Value of Mistakes as Teachers

Mistakes are mistakes, and mistakes happen in life, but actually they are one of the biggest teachers of life. One learns first hand, consequences of actions by committing a mistake, hence he learns to be wise and experience. A mistake may carry a price of embarrassment to actual losses but is very often a treasure that would be useful for all his future choices.

Consider the best persons in this world. They are inventors, business owners, and inspirational persons like Steve Jobs, Oprah Winfrey, or Thomas Edison who achieved so many great things yet failed severely in other projects. In fact, the great Thomas Edison is said to have told, "I have not failed. I've just found 10,000 ways that won't work." And from each one of those mistakes he took one step nearer to a success–his invention of the light bulb. Moral? Each failure was overridden by the reward from the eventual success and the lessons learned along the line of venture.

2. The Weight of Regret

Regret, however, is an emotion that carries a much heavier price. While the cost of mistakes can be tangible and sometimes fleeting, regret stays in our minds and hearts for long after the window to act has closed. It reminds us of all those moments when we did not take the chance, when we did not speak out, or when we did not pursue our dreams. While mistakes give growth, regret offers nothing but the burden of "what if."

Imagine reaching the later years of your life and reviewing the list, not on mistakes but on opportunities left undone. Regret from never doing something you'd wanted to do, or not having called a loved one when you could, or never venturing beyond the safety zone can really make a person feel empty. The weight of the emotional consequence is often greater than that of any results from a mistake.

3. Why Mistakes Are the Risk Worth Taking

The most typical reason to avoid risks is fear of failure. But notice that the fear of failure is often driven by a fear of mistakes. The irony is that this way of thinking results in lost opportunities and subsequently regret. It involves the risk of the fact that reality of a jump, decision, or willingness to do something important carries with it the very inherent possibility of mistakes. So, it is, of course, an inherent risk. Growth and fulfillment though are price-worthy for it.

Taking calculated risks allows us to live life more fully, because we don't have a fear of failure. It is out of those experiences that resilience is built, creativity develops, and true potential becomes known. Knowing that making mistakes will always give room for learning creates a stepping stone for confidence. Then you begin to realize failure is not an endpoint; it is a stepping stone.

4. Embracing Mistakes, Avoiding Regret

So how does one train their mind to accept mistakes and reduce regrets? SELF COMPASSION: Be aware that mistakes are a part of life and never define who you are. Act lovingly toward yourself and learn from your mistakes.

• Take Action: Act in spite of fear. Reach out to a love one, seek that job you have always wanted, or try something new for yourself. In the face of fear, nothing else moves you forward.
• Reflect and Adapt: Sometimes, after making a wrong move, one needs a little time to reflect what went wrong and how better it would be done in the future. This can prepare a person for whatever challenges await in the future not to continue doing the same over and over again.
• Seek Growth, Not Perfection: It is not all about not making mistakes. Life teaches lessons. Growth will come when there are difficulties, not when avoiding.

Conclusion 5. The Lesser Cost of the Mistake is the Regret

Surely, with mistakes come also consequences that go along; these are temporary, a precursor to growth and learning resilience. The cost is far more significant: It's one that mounts to be accumulated over time into the possibility of unrealized potential, the haunting possibility of what could have been.

Choose to act, risk mistakes, and live without the shadow of regret. For life, in all its messiness and imperfection, is just as beautiful. Embracing mistakes as a journey will give you much greater lessons than the comforting peace of not acting at all. So take your chance, embrace uncertainty, and remember: it is far better to pay today's price of a mistake than the heavy cost of tomorrow's regret.

Why Spanish language is still alive in the Philippines

Refuting the Claim: The Philippines as a Non-Spanish-Speaking Country

The Philippines is not a Spanish-speaking country and my goal is to refute the same claim by Esquire Philippines writer Angelica Gutierrez. She claim that the Philippines is the only former Spanish colony not speaking Spanish and they keep on posting on social media. It is true in terms of the widespread and daily usage of the language, but it ignores the subtle ways Spanish language and culture have deeply embedded themselves in Philippine society. We have to look at history, linguistics, and the lingering cultural imprints that prove Spanish lingers, subtly, in the Philippines.

1. Historical Legacy and the Spanish Language Among the Elite

Spanish did indeed become the language of the elite, the educated, and the political class in the Philippines during the Spanish colonial era. For centuries, Spanish was taught in schools and was the primary language of government and literature. True, the Spanish friars focused on learning local languages like Tagalog and Cebuano to spread their religious teachings, but Spanish was adopted by the upper classes and those involved in governance.

Prominent Filipino writers like the works of José Rizal, "Noli Me Tángere" and "El Filibusterismo," to name a few, used their language to awaken national consciousness. The Spanish language came not only as a shadow of colonial power but in the very mouth of how resistance, reform, and an identity would be expressed: though the use of it declined, especially after its colonization by the Americans but never fully disappeared.

Also, most of the 82 provinces in the Philippines are named in Spanish language. The notable provinces with names ending in Spanish words like del Norte, del Sur, Occidental, and Oriental. My home province of Isabela was even named after the Queen Isabella II of Spain, the name of our country which is the Philippines is named after the King Philip. Another example is the municipality of Reina Mercedes which is also in Isabela is notably the most royal address in the world.

2. Integration of Spanish in Filipino Languages

No one can deny that the legacy left by the Spanish is very strong when it comes to the languages used in the Philippines. Tagalog, Cebuano, Ilocano, and the regional languages are so filled with Spanish loan words that hundreds of words spoken every day in the country come from Spanish. The following are some examples of words used daily in the Philippines: mesa (table), silla (chair), kutsilyo (knife), gatas (milk), sapatos (shoes), and even numero (number).

Apart from basic words, some Filipino cultural practices retain a system of idiomatic phrases, counts, and other linguistic tools brought about by the Spanish that remained intact to this very day in certain circles such as among the elder ones or those who grew up within some parts of Zamboanga City. There is also the case wherein younger generations, without the actual knowledge of the subject matter, use Chavacano, the locally-influenced version of the Tagalog that blends local with Spanish tongues for people of their area. Being this type of Creole proves itself as evidence of how effective it is for Spanish not only in being retained over generations but also as able to integrate with native tongue even further.

3. The Position of the Spanish Language in School Education and in the Religion

Even though the Spanish Language is no longer prevalent in this country, which had been occupied by the Americans, it was studied in schools for centuries until, as recently as in the middle of the last century. In fact, until constitutional revision in 1987, there was, in the Philippines, an obligatory Philippine curriculum subject and, therefore, most of those living today have retained at least some familiarity with Spanish as part of their education.

In religious activities, influence from Spain is also strongly displayed. Their language in praying, hymns sung, and even terminologies used in religious gatherings were still derived from prayers through Santo Niño or the Holy Child, Nuestra Señora, the Our Lady, or terms like Hermanos (which means Brothers). It presents historical assimilation of Spanish to Filipino spirit under the tradition of Pasyon, which is a chant describing how Christ suffered during the Passion observed during Holy Week.

4. Revival and Modern Interest in the Spanish Language

In fact, recent developments showed the renewed interests about the Spanish language among the people of the Philippines. Various educational institutions, private schools that teach languages, and organizations in culture offer their course programs in Spanish for, apart from historical, cultural, and economic purposes, these are important relations for the two nations involved: the Philippines and Spain. Ties of Spain with the Philippines have been promoted through bilateral cultural programs as this will help to rejuvenate common heritage shared between two nations.

The boom in globalization and the increasing significance of Spanish as a global language is also a reason behind this resurgent interest. For a vast Hispanic market has started opening up, along with much economic potential related to countries speaking the Spanish language. Many professionals now consider it their advantage to be conversant with Spanish.

Conclusion: Spanish is Not Yet Over as a Lingua Philippines

Indeed, Spanish is no longer the lingua franca of the Philippines, unlike in other former Spanish colonies in Latin America. But to dismiss the Philippines as a non-Spanish-speaking country is to miss all the linguistic and cultural subtleties that continue to tie the nation to its Spanish past. From the rich blend of Spanish vocabulary in everyday speech to renewed interest in language learning and cultural programs, part of the Filipino identity is Spanish but not at the helm.

This would essentially oversimplify the case, claiming that the Philippines is now free of all of its Spanish roots. Of course, it runs much deeper and is wedged into the very fabric of culture, history, and even modern consciousness. Left, it may no longer be as dominant as once viewed and felt, but this lives on in constant repetition across generations, reminding the Filipino of a shared past, which defines their country's future and present.

Life in the Philippine provinces

5 Reasons Why Living in Rural Provinces Can Be Your Best Choice

Living in the province has always been romanticized as a peaceful, laid-back alternative to the fast-paced, stress-filled environment of the city. While there are undeniable challenges to rural living, it's time to look beyond the negatives and explore the many benefits that come with life in one of the 82 provinces of the Philippines. If you plan to leave the cities in Metro Manila, here are five reasons why living in a rural province could be the best decision you'll ever make.

This blog is just a response to the article written by Kristoffer Jan Notario.

1. Closer connection to nature and a healthier lifestyle

The most important reason to move to the province is reconnecting with nature. Rural areas often have mountains, rice fields, or coastal regions nearby, so the view is always scenic and the air is always fresh. Nature connection through outdoor activities, such as hiking, swimming, or gardening, enhances a healthier lifestyle.

Being away from town also reduces exposure to noise pollution and the frantic pace which largely contributes to stress. Researchers have shown that having a period in nature brings down the levels of cortisol and helps in boosting global mental health. To stay an even more harmonized and conscious life, peace and tranquility surrounding such provinces cannot be over-shadowed.

2. Relatively Low Cost of Life

Probably one of the advantages of staying in the province is that it is cheap to live compared to being in the city. There is housing, and in general, cost of day-to-day activities such as food and transportation is affordable. It may not have a booming job market such as Metro Manila, but your income would stretch longer.

Provinces are filled with local produce and seafood sold at much cheaper prices, too. For people who love cooking or eating fresh and organic food, going to local markets would benefit them with the convenience of being able to acquire something they can prepare and taste. Also, community culture often involves sharing fruits, vegetables, or home-cooked meals with neighbors, saving more money for living costs.

3. Deeper Sense of Community

It is common for a number of years that people spend their lives living in apartments or houses with the same neighbors and maybe some friends in a city, but this is quite contrary to life in a province. It becomes deeply rooted in community values. These individuals in the provinces have known each other and cared for one another, thus calming them for such feelings.

From town fiestas to volunteer efforts and community-based projects, there are so many ways to get to know people and become part of a close-knit community. This connectedness is especially helpful for families that want to raise their children in a supportive and friendly environment. The communal atmosphere not only helps to build lasting relationships but also fosters responsibility towards helping one's community prosper.

4. Opportunities for a More Sustainable Lifestyle

The province is the perfect place for a more sustainable way of living. With open spaces and fertile land, rural areas provide opportunities for gardening, farming, and even raising livestock. Many people who move to the provinces find joy and fulfillment in growing their own food, which can significantly reduce reliance on store-bought goods and promote a healthier diet.

In addition to farming and gardening, the natural setting of a non-commercialized province automatically reduces one's carbon footprint. Commuting distances are short, and many of its residents bike or walk around, thus creating lesser air pollution. The province is perfect for those who give importance to environmental friendly practices and wish to have a simpler and more sustainable lifestyle.

5. Slow Pace of Life and Much More Meaning

It's really just racing amidst city life when people see work deadlines looming near. They go along amidst traffics in this or that, constantly bothered with every kind of activities buzzing there. With regard to life, though, one seems to appreciate having such opportunities for relaxation when going in for living within a slower provincial lifestyle-a slower style which helps provide greater depth to think better for your ideas as well as gain better balancing from it within the setting at large.

The peace and quiet of a rural life can be inspiration for those who work at home or have the means to pursue creative activities, such as writing, painting, or crafting. Individuals can focus on their passion without the pressure of hustle and bustle in a city, finding fulfillment away from work. This, in turn, can contribute to a more meaningful life, centered on what actually matters: relationships, self-care, and personal development.

Final Thoughts: The Province as an Option for Happiness

Even if it's more difficult to live in the province, the pros mostly offset the cons when individuals have a strong need to have life surrounded by nature, people, and ease. Provincial living has options to maintain a less costly way of life and supports an ecological lifestyle that further adds up to being there in terms of community familiarity, so it can serve not only as an option but as a great preference for those who value those kinds of things. Certainly, it is not for everybody, especially those who thrive on the conveniences of city living. However, for those who prioritize peace, health, and genuine human connection, the rural provinces of the Philippines offer a quality of life that is unmatched.

So, before you write off the idea of living in the province, take some time to weigh these positives. You might find that the great benefits align perfectly with the life you dream of—one rich with experience, community spirit, and meaningful simplicity.