The Essence Of Christmas During The Pandemic Is About To Be Revealed!

In the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic, how does one welcome Christmas this year?

This is most likely one of the few times in modern history when we are urged to celebrate Christmas in its purest form, in its simplicity. We are preoccupied with rules on how to enjoy Christmas this year– with just members of the family who live in the same household, to continue wearing masks, to observe social separation, or to wash hands frequently– due to the attention on the coronavirus. For our mutual security and safety, we are being prevented from visiting one another. This year, we won't be able to experience the normal Christmas joy and mirth that we have come to expect.

Some, if not all, of the wonderful Christmas traditions and customs have been jeopardized. Traditional gatherings with family, friends, and neighbors, for example, have been discouraged to some extent and shifted online because they are deemed unsafe and risky because they may facilitate the spread of the coronavirus.

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The number of persons who can attend "simbang gabi" has also been limited, and masses have been celebrated online or streamed via various social media platforms to ensure that Filipinos can still attend mass in the privacy of their own homes. 

Similarly, carolling, shopping extravaganzas, and parties are prohibited and discouraged, with night-time curfews enacted as one method of ensuring that people do not roam the streets but instead stay in their homes to prevent the spread of the deadly illness, even during the holiday season. As a result, Filipino Christmas celebrations have been more low-key, humble, and minimalist.

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It's that time of year to be... safe... and tranquil... and compassionate. 

Even though this holiday season will be unique – and unpleasant for many – we can rest assured that the sacrifices we make today will protect us, our loved ones, and our communities in the future. The idea is to have everyone here next year to celebrate in person.

It's critical that we stay current on the most recent public health orders and recommendations — and that we follow them. We'll have to get creative to find methods to celebrate and enjoy the holidays even if we can't get together in person.

Here are some "COVID Christmas" ideas and suggestions:

1. Utilize technology to its full potential. Consider having virtual parties and religious services, unwrapping gifts over Zoom, or walking while conversing with people outside your bubble on your cell phone.

2. Online Christmas shopping Avoid shopping malls that are overcrowded! If you do go to the mall, keep in mind that you must wear a mask and keep a safe distance. Alternatively, you can choose to have your items picked up at the curb.

3. Make a list of positive coping strategies. Preparing and eating nutritious foods, engaging with those in your bubble (or virtually connecting with those who aren't), sleeping properly, taking physical exercise, and building or producing something are all examples of these things. More wonderful strategies to take care of yourself may be found in this useful info graphic.

4. Count the times you've been grateful. Even while this is a terrible moment, and the 2020 holiday season may be even more challenging, it is also an opportunity to reflect on what is good in our life and what good may have come from this scenario. Have we grown more resilient and better able to endure uncertainty and stress, for example, or have we learnt to appreciate the people closest to us and the minor pleasures in life?

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5. If you need assistance, ask for it. If you're having trouble, please seek assistance. It isn't a sign of weakness to do so; rather, it is a display of bravery. Our COVID-19 seasonal holiday supports and/or COVID-19 mental health and cultural supports provide complete information on the resources and assistance accessible to you.

The pandemic will not, to a large extent, affect the most important season of the year for Filipinos. Regardless of quarantine restrictions or financial hardships, Filipinos will always find a way to have fun and celebrate the holiday season with friends and family, even if it means doing so online.

Indeed, despite the epidemic and the myriad challenges it has brought to the Philippines and the rest of the world, most notably in how Christmas celebrations and festivities have been transformed and limited to some extent, the core of Christmas has remained the same.

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Even in the midst of the pandemic, Christmas still represents giving, loving, and renewed hope for a healthier and better future. It still refers to generosity and benevolence for all people, particularly the least poor, especially at this time of epidemic.



Sources:

https://su.edu.ph/reflections/celebrate-christmas-amidst-the-covid-19-pandemic/ https://www.fnha.ca/about/news-and-events/news/celebrating-christmas-during-the-covid-19-pandemic

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