Jolly Christmas Party need not be extravagant

12-16-10

And so the kids under my advisory enjoyed the simple party. Simple, because we did not contribute specific amount for the food. The students prepared by group. We had a simple lunch and we did not even have the money-spending exchanging gift. But we had the party that was jolly. Some joined in the karaoke singing. Others were ecstatic playing the parlor games. The winners got candies as their prizes.
I was surprised by a student who gave me a gift. I thought that was an act of true sharing. I wished I could have given her something in return. But I thought she was grateful that I sponsored the drinks and the games' prizes, and most of all, of my presence. Earlier, they thought the party would not pursue. The kids went home with smile on their face. These pictures can really tell, even more than what I am saying here.

Gift of Christmas

I was arguing with some of my third year students this morning on the idea of exchanging gifts. They suggested that we raffle their names for the exchange gifts as one highlight for the Christmas party in school. Over the years of my teaching, I always succumb to the desire of the kids; after all, it's their party not mine. However this time, I have seen the necessity of bringing up my stand on exchanging gifts. I discussed with them on the idea about gifts during Christmas. I told them that after the Magi gave their gifts to Jesus, they did not ask for any exchange. "We are the very gifts for others, as Christ came to share to us the gift of Salvation," I added. I further said that Christmas is not about expecting for something to be received but it is a moment to share joy to everyone. A family could have all the decorations, food preparations and everything for the celebration. But if there's no peace in the home, what's Christmas for? Some of us try to feel the presence of the season by having all the materials for the celebration of holidays around. It is every Christian's responsibility to tell the world of the meaning and reason for the Season: The Birth of Jesus, the Emmanuel.

I was relieved that somehow, they agreed that we shall not have exchanging gifts anymore.