What draws someone to build a new life across the world? For me, it was Melbourne, a colorful city with a world of cultures in one place, seemingly borderless and filled with possibilities. It is where I feel the most free, and is now the city I love most.
This Christmas, as a data administrator and recent Masters of Information Systems graduate, I celebrate not just the holidays, but a life redefined.
Growing up in Pasig City, and then moving to Arayat, Pampanga, and then Dumaguete, Negros Oriental, I tell friends here in Melbourne that Christmas in the Philippines is a phenomenon unto itself, as the festive feeling starts in September.
It’s a whirlwind of one gathering after another, made extra special by the overload of delicious food. There’s the relentless, joyful singing of Christmas carols, and louder, longer blasts of karaoke from neighbors. The weeks are full of nonstop belly laughter from friendly get-togethers, and hilarious but mostly mortifying family reunions.
My first Christmas in Australia last year was quite the “advencha.” I had the privilege to experience the unforgettable caravan life with my chosen family, the De Bruins, who are my friends from Dumaguete. We meandered along the Sunshine Coast to Brisbane, full of magical scenery, and I was lucky enough to have the best company in that adventure of a lifetime.
The upcoming holidays, however, will be a very different experience. I want to stay put in the city and enjoy a quiet reflection on my journey so far.
Comfort of familiarity
However, the spirit of a Pinoy Christmas refuses to be contained by geography. I’ve found ways to bring the traditions of home to my new life. Sharing stories and playing absurdly competitive but funny Filipino Christmas games for upcoming Aussie summer picnics and barbecues excite me, so I can bring the warmth of a Filipino family celebration.
Connecting with a Filipino community in Melbourne has also gifted me with the comfort of familiarity.
There’s one thing that’s important to me during Christmas holidays. I always make it a point to be with the people I care about. While far from my family in the Philippines, I’ve found that sense of connection in the friendships I’ve built in Melbourne. I’m extremely grateful for the friends who’ve become my new support system, and that is my Christmas miracle.
I’m not looking to start new traditions, but it’s more of integrating the experiences of the past year and savoring the new life I’ve created. I’m keen on my celebration of personal growth, of adapting in a foreign city, of finding community in unexpected places and deepening my connection to land.—CONTRIBUTED INQ
