Silva Kandiah mentioned the season of Yuletide as deviating towards secular commercialism when it is really of Christian origin. She wondered how Singapore Christians dealt with this inaccurate portrayal of Christmas. She presented a contradiction between the decorated atmosphere and the actual meaning of the occasion.
As a Roman Catholic, I don't see the ambiguity involved in celebrating this season. I do admire the decorations along the roads, put up the Christmas tree in my home and buy a new outfit every year for midnight mass. However, I know that the intrinsic values of the occasion are still very much prevalent in my life.
My admiration of the decorations is from a purely aesthetic point of view while the new outfit is the only secular indulgence I give myself.
The tree is green, which represents everlasting life given so abundantly by my Saviour. I buy gifts for and give cards to people because giving is better than receiving, as it brightens their hearts and expresses God's love to them through me. I try to donate to the Salvation Army's pot too, as charity goes hand in hand with Christmas.
Most importantly, this season reminds me again of God's generous love towards me when He gave His Son to me. Being in my church choir helps me to be more aware of my mission to spread God's love through song as well.
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