The Phoenix of Christmas

Spoiling ourselves and relinquishing the joyous respite to rest and celebrate Christmas has come upon us. A time of repetitive drifts of this week’s holiday traditions of the contemporary. A convergence of joyous spirits on the table to share their journeys.

In many Filipino homes, Christmas does not end on December 25. The days that follow are marked by shared leftovers, extended gatherings, and quieter reflections around the dining table. This post-Christmas period reveals not only how families celebrate abundance, but also how they stretch resources, preserve tradition, and navigate health reminders amid continued festivities—turning what remains into something meaningful.

The table greets us with reheated spaghetti from yesterday’s Noche Buena. The menudo or caldereta, slowly heats beside the freshly cooked rice until all that’s left is its greasy sauce by the arrival of January. The uncooperative hamon as the knife slides off from the freezer-burned meat. A Noche Buena, made to last, a remembrance of the past. Where the only thing that remains is our reflection on our plates.

Leftovers of joy slowly pace as this season of rain—unaware of the peace it brings with its breezy emptiness. Just as our Christmas parols sway with gleaming light, an enduring color remains in our hearts amid these times of challenges. Hence, a graham cake, layered thick with its gentle sweetness, mirrors the resilience of households easing back into routine. 

Yet, in the matter of persistence, no food can best spaghetti. To share it with the neighborhood is either an act of generosity or a dare, as some houses would have exaggeratedly cooked enough for at least five families. It is a sweet embrace with a mother’s sour intent just to empty the cauldron. One can say it is the symbol of genuine connection, as best friends alike prank each other yet share the same joy it brings to the table. We may thank our barangay for it from our city’s Christmas food boxes, often distributed during the holidays as part of local assistance efforts, a bundle of hope and probably to vindicate that Php 500 budgeting.

As there is much more to look at, it is funny to notice that Christmas itself is full of round things. An echo to the sight, where ornaments connect as stars from the Christmas tree and parols. The freezer-burned ham is rushed to the cold pan, while someone foolishly wonders what the red wax from the queso de bola would taste like. And once again, as everyone at the table reaches out their hands, halos form as they pray for graces and blessings.

On every night of this holiday week, we either stay to enjoy the riches of Aguinaldo or become the giver as we join the uncles’ table. There is a welcoming embrace as we are handed that cold brown glass. As others hurl for the mic, one stations themself by the embers to deliver that juicy grills. The aunts join in, foretelling our futures as if they were already destined, while they reach to hurl their wines. As strong as the atmosphere may be, a simple glance outside gives an observable peace within chaos.

Although in the richness of spoils, the Department of Health (DOH) expertly advises that we manage what is brought to the table. DOH spokesperson Albert Domingo reminded the public to be mindful of what they eat during the holiday season, particularly with reheated, greasy, and sweet food that may pose health risks if consumed excessively or stored improperly. Though it won’t be bad to have your antihistamines or antihypertensives ready. As good as the food may be, may it be greasy, sweet, or alcoholic, let us ensure that we can reheat Christmas as safely as it was celebrated last year. 

We cherish this holiday week, holding its spirit from before the festivities begin until long after they fade. As people bring their amends to the table—whether sorrow in their minds or the hope in their hearts—may they find comfort. And though it may have been one silent night for others, may they find peace and tranquility in their hearts as the year comes to an end. 

Article: Archirez Dela Cruz

Graphics: Janelle Vinluan