What does Christmas truly means to us?

    The Bigueňos have distinct and colorful traditions. They do have a rich culture that cannot be expressed in words alone, but they show it in a variety of ways, including festivities and intangible cultural traditions that they share with everyone. One of the most important traditions for the Bigueňos is the Christmas season. They prepare for this special holiday with passion. The local government would often greet Christmas by installing a giant Christmas tree and other decorations in front of city hall, while residents would always attend the "simbang gabi" or "Misa De Gallo." Children will carol nightly in their neighborhood, and houses will be decorated with Christmas lights even in September, which they think marks the beginning of the "ber" months.

 

All of these traditions are indisputably significant for every Bigueňo since they are a part of their existence, especially the Christmas celebration, which is typically the time when their family is whole. However, the pandemic happened, and many of the customs were eventually unable to be maintained. Numerous health protocols were adopted, as well as community quarantines, in Vigan, making it difficult for the locals to enjoy any holidays. However, celebrating Christmas has been their way of actually giving time for the entire family and a sacred time for them that they tirelessly embrace, so everyone made it possible to express their devotion for Christmas by celebrating it at home, attending Christmas mass while adhering to health protocols, and the government made sure that people who are going home to Vigan are not COVID carriers by providing checkpoints.

Christmas is meaningful to everyone, and they are embracing it as a part of their lives. Embracing and honoring their heritage at any moment, no matter how chaotic or tough life becomes, was part of their trait. We must set aside our worries and have a carefree mindset throughout the holidays since it is a time when we must foster togetherness and healthy spirituality. Expensive festivities are unneeded if we grasp what the true meaning of Christmas is for us. 

Reference:

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