Autumn Thoughts

True to what was predicted, it was bitterly cold this morning (19 November 2006). With leaves falling from trees and mornings getting shorter (which is why clocks in this part of the world have moved backwards since late October), winter is soon close at hand. Autumn (the season before winter)has turned every garden into a forlorn place. Gone are the days when one can stay in the garden to enjoy the sunshine and the plants in full bloom. And yet, I am surprised to see two rose buds. We had a long and hot summer complexed with rainy days which, according to scientists, made some plants think that autumn is spring.

This reminds me of our very own lives. We may think that we're at life's edge already and that whatever else we do would be too late to accomplish. The rose buds in our garden tell us that it's never too late to change, to live anew, to be in love. As the plants that have enjoyed more than enough sunshine (and some rain) last summer are blooming at an unexpected season, we too who have benefited in His grace can bear fruit when we least expect it.

In God's sight, there is no such thing as a late bloomer.

***

It's my Lolo Paul's death anniversary as I write this. As I go to church where I am scheduled to be one of the readers, I cannot fail to recall how my grandfather would perform the same role in the daily Mass at St Rita Hospital many years ago.

Speaking of the daily Mass at that place, another person comes into my mind - the late Fr Loreto Palafox. Fr Palafox used to be our chaplain for ages until he was appointed to Capitol Medical where he met his tragic end on 12 November 1999. He was our trainer during the first Salubong in Gagalangin 26 years ago.

May their souls and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God rest in peace. Amen.

***

Call me KJ (kill joy), party pooper, whatever, but it's not yet Christmas! Though the decors everywhere look pleasant, I think this holy season has been commercialized to no end. And who's going to benefit? The shop owners!

The 3rd of December will mark the beginning of Advent, the season of preparation for Christmas. Sad to say we haven't fully appreciated what this season has for us. There's a church were Christmas carols have already been sung when it's only the Second Sunday of Advent!

The Simbang Gabi, one of the well loved Filipino traditions, has been perceived as the start of the Christmas season in our country. I believe it has helped us spritually prepare for the Lord's birth, however I think we have to 'mellow' the Simbang Gabi so it can be a useful means for us to prepare.

My suggestions:

1. Priests will wear violet, the color of Advent. This will make people aware that we are still preparing.
2. The Gloria (which is a song of joy and praise) will be omitted since it's still Advent.
3. Develop more Advent songs which are more appropriate than singing any Christmas carols best-selling as they may be.