December is here at last, and it only means one thing — Christmas is fast approaching. As I walk down the streets of my neighborhood, I can’t help but hear the children or even their parents already pondering what gifts their godparents will give them or to their child this Christmas.
Well, as we all know, it has already been established in our Filipino culture about the idea of godparents giving gifts to their godchildren during Christmas. As Filipinos, we highly value establishing familial bonds and there are times that we often see gift-giving as a tangible expression of love. I firmly believe, however, that the truest gifts are not the ones that are wrapped but rather, it’s the ones that allow us to foster meaningful connections, and create and share long-lasting memories.
Godparents, whom we often call Ninangs and Ninongs, hold a special place in our families as we often regard them as second parents who will also guide and support us throughout our journey. Yet, doesn’t the holiday season sometimes place a burden or pressure on godparents when it comes to fulfilling gift-giving expectations?
Although gift-giving is indeed a wonderful tradition that brings joy to children, it should never become a source of stress or guilt for their godparents. I suppose we should learn to recognize and embrace that the true spirit of Christmas is not determined by the material value of gifts.
Some godparents are still students like me, and some are also facing financial difficulties themselves. Thus, godparents should not feel compelled to go above and beyond their means just so that they can meet what is expected of them to do this Christmas.
The essence of Christmas should be about fostering bonds, spreading joy, and celebrating the love that binds us all as one family. May it be a heartfelt greeting, or just having dinner where both get to spend quality time with one another. The act of gift-giving should not put pressure on the godparents. Instead, if gifts are offered, can’t just the godchildren embrace them as a sincere gesture rather than assuming that they’ll always receive one? If there is a change in our perspective, we will be able to foster an authentic relationship and meaningful connection between the godparents and their godchildren.
Christmas in the Philippines is a time when we celebrate our family, joy, and love; it is significant for us to ensure that the true spirit of the season isn’t overshadowed by the expectations of gift-giving. Let us redefine the traditions surrounding the godparents’ role during Christmas. If a godparent finds themselves unable to give their godchildren gifts, they should not feel guilty of it. This is because it all lies behind the sincerity and genuineness of the relationship they create together.
As we embrace the true spirit of Christmas, let us encourage a society where godparents and godchildren alike cherish the genuine connection they share and understand that it’s not about what’s underneath the Christmas tree, but the love and the connection that embraces it.
