The Season to be Jolly...

Two days from now, Christians all over the world will be celebrating, once again, the birth of Christ.

I went to the mall the other day and saw excited children pointing out their preferred toys; some are wailing, some are pleading; the rest, simply demanding.

Trees decorated with sparkling lights and pretty ornaments, mistletoes, evergreen bouquets, candy canes -- banal sights to remind us that the season of loving, giving and sharing is here again.

Scenes that remind me of the Christmases back home. Days before Christmas, my son and I would carefully plan our trip to the already packed department stores. In a war like strategy that would make Napoleon wet his pants, we determine which route is the fastest and least crowded. We conquer the war zone with firm valor to bring home the best gift for our loved ones. And not to mention, the best outfit for the budding fashion au courant.

It's been three Christmases since I last had the chance to go Christmas malling with my son. It seemed forever. Tonight, I got to talk to him and the folks, and he told me what he got for himself during this morning trip to the stores. With no mommy to escort him around, he got the grandma to assist him with the delicate business of choosing which pair of shoes is the best.

Son confessed that shopping wasn't much fun because mom's not there.

Christmas is here... and it makes me want to cry.