Christmas Countdown: Gift-giving

"And when they were come into the house, they saw the young child with Mary his mother, and fell down, and worshipped him: and when they had opened their treasures, they presented unto him gifts; gold, and frankincense and myrrh."

- Matthew 2:11, King James Version

Now that there are three days to go before Christmas, people might be reminded of the Three Wise Men presenting gifts to the child Jesus Christ. Gift-giving is a tradition practiced by billions, including Filipinos, around the world during the Christmas season.

One of the reasons stores get high sales volumes during the season is that people buy items to be given to family and friends. As time went by, the practice is said to have imparted a materialistic tinge to festivities. It is our choice to dwell on the spirit of giving. The gift does not need to be tangible nor expensive. We can make the gift of love, kindness, and goodwill towards other people.