A Message for You: SURRENDER Yourself
shared via Filipinas Nostalgia
The holiday fun was enjoyable while it lasted — from gift-giving to non-stop parties – Christmas in the Philippines had its own right and a fair share of Christmas traditions from food to spirituality.
When I was a kid, I would have this crazy list of people I would give handmade presents to or have a wish list that seemed never-ending, go to mass I honestly never sat through well and patiently with and be up and about when Santa will come
Eventually, as time passed and I grew older, I slowly have forgotten to do those things (the only thing I wish I was still doing was to give handmade gifts people really close to me).
And then I think to myself “I might have lost the spirit of Christmas. Am I becoming a Grinch?”. There must be something I can do to be in a Christmas spirit — an activity that won’t involve material things or money.
Ah yes, simbang gabi( “Evening Mass” in English). I used to overlook this activity/tradition. But a beautiful decision I have made before I officially uproot from my current location was definitely to complete it. I believe it was a chance for me to channel into my spiritual connection not just with my creator, but most of all, have thoughts and realizations within myself.
“Simbang Gabi” Night Mass- which is a novena of 9 days of early morning mass to celebrate the coming of Jesus and the annunciation and revelation of the holy spirit’s grace to different characters in the story.
MY FAVORITE WORD FROM ALL OF THE HOMILIES I HAVE ATTENDED WOULD BE “SURRENDER”.
It was something that stuck to me since a lot of times, I would tend to overthink a lot of things and my mind usually is stuck in circles dwelling when one should let go and move on with the flow and unfolding of events in ones’ life.
“I THINK EARLY IN MY EXPLORATION ABOUT ART – IT WAS A CRUCIAL THING TO TRUST THE UNIVERSE THAT ELEMENTS IN YOUR LIFE WILL CONSPIRE TO MAKE YOUR VISION INTO REALITY. AND IF NOT, SOMETHING GREATER, SOMETHING BETTER.”
Right now, being able to remind myself to surrender to my faith and believe whatever happens to me will be alright, is the best gift I was asking as my special wish after the novena.
Peace of mind is such a luxury nowadays — when we are bombarded by too much information and social media. I could only hope that with art and faith, I can gain it back when I lose it and move forward.
Wishing everyone a peaceful holidays and new year!
Let’s create something beautiful, inspiring and worthwhile everywhere we go, whoever we are — for the coming days and months.
Love and light,
S.S.
This article was originally published on pinturaatpintig.wordpress.com in 2019.
