Simbang Gabi

Officially today’s morning 1St mass is what we Filipinos so called “Simbang Gabi”. As the olden day saying that if you manage to finish the 9 consecutive masses held your wish would come true.

Being a member of CCD (see link) and a Choir member, we would sing in these masses. I also believe that we were the first group of Church Choir during those times that perform in the altar presenting a play about the birth of Christ. I acted as Joseph mind you. Did I mention to you before, that “Teatro Apostulado” was created for our group mainly to give us first hand education about stage drama, Acting, stage pacing, lighting and all about Theater! A very pleasant and memorable experience I should say.

Our group would excitedly wait for this event because it would mean wearing our jackets and meting a lot of beautiful girls. Or we would just play around before and after the mass. Eat puto-bungbong, bebengka, Maja Blanko, and other native delicacies that are being sold near the vicinity of Sta. Cruz Church. Who would forget the sweet aroma of hot chocolate being served to us after the mass?

Asking if our wishes did come true? Of course we have a lot of wishes during those times and yes also some of our wishes did come true. Wink!

Christmas is really for kids, the reason I could not resist giving money to those doing caroling even on jeepneys. Have you experienced caroling neighbor’s homes with your friends using musical instrument made from discarded milk can as drum, bunch of soft drinks bottle as our synthesizer bounded by wire. If the owners don’t give us anything we would sing, “Thank you, thank you, ang babarat ninyo”. Then run away laughing.
Today officially start our long tradition of Christmas celebration but let us not forget the true essence of our festiveness.
My family decided to have an exchange gift this year. The money coming from school allowance that they have save, they suggested the amount P50.00. The funny part is we would be celebrating New Year on January 6. Mind over matter!

Now I would be greeting you all a very Merry Christmas and a happy new year too!
Maybe I could not create or write another blog piece after Christmas due to my very busy schedule.