Christmas in the autumn of our lives

As aging parents, we cannot let go from our memories the happy Christmases we had when our children were still young and living with us. But we should learn to move on and enjoy the Christmases we still have in our remaining years.

After all, the joy of Christmas is a feeling that we can easily manage — whoever we’re with and wherever we are.

Without the presence and assistance of my children, I continue with our Christmas tradition of hosting a Christmas party for young children from an orphanage and giving them not-so-expensive gifts that I solicit from friends, such as slippers, bags, crayons, pencils, toys and other small items.

I make it a point to give an extra amount to my office employees and house caretakers, so they can buy an extra toy or clothes for their children. What could be cheap to some can bring tremendous joy to others, especially to children, on Christmas.

Even now as we age, let us enjoy the merriment of Christmas, the glitter of Christmas trees, the flicker of Christmas lights along the streets and malls and the sound of Christmas carols, and still savor the forbidden ham and lechon and the sweet fruit cake and salad — but in moderation. We might not have the chance to enjoy them again.

Quoting an article that I pasted on my desk: “Let the doctors handle your body. Let God and nature handle your life. But be in charge of your moods — thoughts and emotions. Running water does not flow back. And so it is with time and life. Make it happy.”

As we near the portal of our final flight, let us pray and hope that the promise of Christmas will come true for us and our loved ones, even when we are gone.

That thought alone should make us remain optimistic and inspired, and be reason and impetus enough for us to do good, live well, laugh often and love much — even in the autumn and winter of our lives.

Victor T. Reyes
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