soliDARity: one in heart and mind, in celebration of the saviour's birth

We decided that the Christmas celebration this year be simpler than the previous years, even if by itself, the province of Ilocos Sur speaks of simplicity, grace and 'old soul' in its culture. We just wanted to be together, in the spirit of solidarity, of one in heart and mind, this season when we all look to the birth of Jesus Christ. 

I did not want my colleagues to be stressed over the details of the get-together. My team and a few among the office personnel took care of that, from the invites, kriskringle, the games, prizes, giveaways, the venue decorations, and food. All we asked from them were three things: that they 'donate' whatever extra they had for the prizes; that they bring food to add to whatever the office could afford; and that they prepare for presentations per division. I had them wear the same t-shirts, as I do not want them sweating over the cost of new clothes to wear and for fear that someone might come to the get-together looking like Lady Gaga. 

The theme for the year is 'soliDARity, one in heart and mind', as this year we all felt what difference it made to our service if we all forged forward in one direction, as a team. More than ever, we needed to reinforce the value of solidarity, hand-in-hand, we must be able to share the joys, frustrations and uncertainties, as one. To say, 'as a family' is an understatement: yes, we are one family, with all that goes with the meaning of the word. 

They all panicked about their presentations the week of the get-together itself. I learned that some dance instructors were hired, costumes sewn by the employees themselves, and 'dry-runs' were taking place at the planned venue. I went to one 'dry-run' unannounced, in my hooded cardigan, and the division on deck was clueless I was around. I watched them incognito, as they were all smiles, practicing the dance steps, laughing at themselves during the 'skit', while the dance instructor yelled at them. I gave myself away when I lit a stick. Of course all of them became conscious of my presence, so I said 'bye' and left. The sight of them trying to dance, act, and do that all in coordination with the rest, and with the music, made me really happy, forgive me for being cheesy. For once each year, they are all in one place at one time, and not swearing over deadlines and stacks of paper piled more than five feet high. The utility workers, the drivers, they were on equal footing with the rest. The office trainees even joined the presentations. 

The get-together itself was a hit. We all had a good time. On that cold, windy afternoon, we held hands in 'The Lord's Prayer' during the eucharistic celebration. Again, we held hands during the 'hoola hoop' games in the evening. We hugged. We kissed. Exchanged gifts. We took endless photos. We all looked at the same sky, in the same red shirts, went home, with the same smile splashed across our faces, with the same gratitude in our hearts. Yes, we are all the same, and one, understanding the spirit in which Jesus Christ is born.