Christmas Eve is always synonymous with the warmth of family, burning candles, and the soft melodies of carols. However, Christmas this year feels different for me. Mama, a figure who was always the center of family warmth, passed away several months ago.
That night, the church was filled with candlelight and the sound of the congregation singing “The First Noel”. The song was so moving, it took me to sweet childhood memories when Mama taught me the true meaning of Christmas—sincere love and selfless sacrifice.
However, there is an empty space in my heart that I cannot ignore. After mass, I went home with a heavy heart. The house felt quiet, even though the Christmas tree still stood majestically in the corner of the living room, decorated with ornaments that Mama had chosen with love.
While looking at the Christmas tree, I remembered a valuable lesson from Mama: even in the midst of sadness, we can still find reasons to be grateful. with a shaky voice, I started singing “The First Noel”. Slowly, the song warmed the cold heart.
I realized that even though Mama is no longer physically there, the love and teachings she left behind will always live in my heart. This Christmas taught me the true meaning of hope—that behind every sorrow, there is always joy waiting if we are willing to look for it.
That Christmas Eve, without Mama, was not just a night of sadness. it is a moment to celebrate love that will never be lost, relive sweet memories, and find joy in sorrow. The First Noel is no longer just a song, but a reminder that love is always eternal, even in the midst of loss.
Editor : Amatus. Rahakbauw. K
