What They Need This Christmas

Christmas…Everyone anticipates for this time of the year often associated with gift – giving and sharing. The Christian world has its magnificent story to tell about the origin of this very special occasion. The Christians have wonderful stories to tell how they have lived up to the very essence of Christmas. People have been preparing long lists of gifts and people to receive them. 

While these present the common scenario, I would like to deviate from what is stereotypical. Let the recent Maguindanao massacre be my springboard of discussion. The whole nation was shocked when the news broke. Who could have thought those who were slain would have such tragic death? They, themselves, might have thought of death yet in its normal occurrence not in such a demonic way. Condemnation is not enough to express disgust and vehement anger towards the perpetrator of a heinous crime exemplified.

The victims used to be living a normal life, in anticipation for the coming of Christmas just like anyone here in the Philippines. Never did it cross their minds that they’d orphan their loved ones days before Christmas. While other families just count down waiting for the gift -giving – and – sharing moments on this day, those who are left behind by the victims will have to redefine the celebration of Christmas. 

While ongoing investigations feed the view that the state tries to serve justice the soonest possible time, let it be said that it’s the least the state can do for the victims and their loved ones. Yet, it’s also the best gift they can receive.