And it’s starting to look a lot like Christmas

By Atty. Eduardo T. Reyes III

Just after the long weekend lull that was All Soul’s Day, the Christmas spirit gushes in.

But this weekend officially marks the beginning of Christmas season.  There is a surfeit of tell-tale signs. Colorful lights and lanterns start flickering. Christmas trees grow in every corner, in and out of buildings. They bloom with decorations that immediately captivate the eye. The chilly December air thickens. Christmas songs permeate.

And is Santa Claus coming soon?

We don’t have chimneys in the roof where he can slide through. Some of our neighbors’ ceilings have holes though that await patches to be sponsored by their 13^th-month pay.

Others have only Santa Claus to cling to in their fancies. But many don’t even have the time to think about the big man with a white beard- they’re too busy eking out a living today and tomorrow again.

Is there magic in Christmas?

Is it wrong to dream about Santa Claus?

This column has been a firm believer of people’s right to pursue happiness. There is nothing wrong with dreaming- whether it’s during the day or night. Life’s sordid reality can be too much unless lightened up with thoughts that ease the burden.

So, let’s allow people to dream. Permit them to believe in the magic of Christmas. Let them dream of Santa Claus.

Dance. Sing. Be merry.

Spend time with your family and loved ones.

It’s the time of the year.

As indeed it’s starting to look a lot like Christmas.

            (The author is the senior partner of ET Reyes III & Associates– a law firm based in Iloilo City. He is a litigation attorney, law professor, MCLE lecturer, bar reviewer and book author. His website is etriiilaw.com).