The genesis of the b-e-r months often gives me that childlike awe and wonder about the Season: expectant, delightful, exuberant. Like the local news that do the countdown to the number of days before this occasion, I too create my own.
The moment I hear Christmas songs being played either on the radio or in commercials in between a show, a rush of excitement envelops me. As I visit the bookstore with an array of greeting cards displayed for nanay, tatay, ate, kuya, ninong and ninang and the many establishments magically but auspiciously decorated amid the fiscal crisis; the more I am convinced that Christmas is approaching imminently. Similarly, the sight of roasted castanas sold in specialty shops, the abundant fruit cakes and hams sold, the music enthusiasts serenaded by carolers, and the tiangges that mushroom for the shoppers... 3 days before Christmas... 2 days before Christmas and my excitement augments!
Recently, the Araneta Center in Cubao put up a giant tree, a tradition the management has been doing for many years now. It is a sure attraction to the passers-by and is situated at the core of the place. This is best viewed and appreciated at night when thousands of Christmas lights, gigantic stars, bows and balls is more conspicuous. It makes the whole place spectacular! People halt and look up. Sigh! Araneta Center now has transformed into a classy and modern commercial district at par with Makati and Ortigas. The whole place is landscaped beautifully with lush trees all lined up along its streets. Not only is the establishment's facade given a face lift with vibrant colors. The stores are various too, that lured and gave the eager shoppers more choices and more reasons to spend their moolah!
As I am brought to work every night, I always ask my dad or my brother to take the longer route. This way, I can have a view of the awesome Tree and the lights surrounding its entirety. The brevity of this experience always gives me the magical feeling prevalent in every child... a mirage I create in my heart and mind!
