World economists are predicting a tough Christmas for many countries this year. The global financial crisis is finally taking its toll with world stock markets falling, financial institutions collapsing, and wealthy nations bailing out financial systems. With countries being increasingly inter-connected, this global financial meltdown is finally affecting countries everywhere.
Just last month, British banking giant HSBC announced it would cut 500 jobs in Asia. Citigroup, Citibank’s mother umbrella, plans to lay off 52,000 employees. The domino effect has gone full circle, and clearly, Asia is not exempted from this financial fallout.
Yet despite all gloom assessments, Filipinos still find a reason to celebrate this Christmas season with that same hopeful and jubilant Christmas spirit. Despite the financial crisis, forgoing the colorful and creative Pinoy Christmas tradition is not an option for many Filipinos.
All over the country, Filipinos choose to preserve the festive character of Christmas time. While making use of recyclable materials, Filipinos will accessorize homes, offices and communities. Christmas trees are not bought but are instead made of colorful rubber tires and paper, and parols of used plastic and straw.
Within the Ateneo community, the holiday mood also prevails despite the numerous adversities being experienced. Projects that are outreach-based still abound, proof of how hope continues to radiate in the midst of lean times. For one, the annual Blue Christmas has paved the avenue for allowing Ateneans to share the joyful mood of the season even for just a day with the children from various depressed areas in society.
Ateneo Speed has also joined in the festivities, with its recently concluded project, Sparkle. This is a whole day-affair that has also caught the attention of the community by allowing volunteers to facilitate therapy classes and manage game-booths for the children’s benefit. Gawad Kalinga is a continual driving force that proves that the generous and helping hand is not limited within the confines of the campus.
In a time of uncertainty, it is easy to lose hope and wonder if there is reason to celebrate this Christmas. However, the student body continues to buck the trend of cynicism and apathy. After all, even if the financial crisis may reduce the material gifts received this Christmas, we remember that true gifts are those we receive come from our family, our friends, and above all, the birth of Christ. Despite all the world’s crises, we Filipinos–we in the Ateneo community–choose to celebrate Christmas as season without crisis.
