Today, November 12, marks exactly 43 days before Christmas Eve. While Thanksgiving stands out as the most significant day for Americans (falling on November 28 this year) and for Canadians (celebrated last October 14), for Filipinos, both at home and abroad, Christmas signals the start of the long and joyful “Happy Holidays” season, often infused with a unique blend of humor and festivity.
As soon as the “-ber” months arrive, Filipinos begin their preparations for the holiday season. Before the main Christmas celebrations, there is a brief yet lively Halloween observance from late October through the first days of November. Children, dressed in creative costumes, revel in the joy of trick-or-treating, supported enthusiastically by parents. Malls and residential communities play their part by organizing kid-friendly events that are cheerful rather than frightful. This year, many children donned vibrant, whimsical costumes, with festivities taking place during the day in subdivisions and continuing all day in shopping centers.
In our local community, children and parents gathered at the clubhouse to enjoy ice cream and various treats before embarking on a house-to-house adventure. Some walked from house to house, while others had vehicles on standby. The sight of children, full of excitement and joy, was heartwarming and truly memorable.
Whether it’s Christmas or Halloween, the goal is simple: to spread happiness among the younger generation.
Happiness On A Global Perspective
Happiness is an essential aspect of a well-functioning society. Contentment among citizens contributes to the overall well-being of the populace and a harmonious relationship with the government.
In a previous column, I extensively discussed Bhutan, the pioneering country that has centered its governance around the happiness of its citizens. Since 2008, Bhutan has embedded this principle in its policies, becoming the first nation to establish a Ministry of Happiness and Well-Being. Their government periodically conducts a unique type of census, focusing not just on population statistics but on gauging the contentment levels of its people.
The United Arab Emirates soon followed suit, demonstrating its commitment to fostering happiness through the release of its “Guide to Happiness and Well-Being” for both public and private sectors. This guide supports initiatives and policies aimed at creating a happier society.
For seven consecutive years, Finland has topped the list as the “Happiest Country in the World,” with Denmark and Iceland closely following. The Nordic countries have set a high benchmark for global happiness.
Are Filipinos Truly Happy?
Filipinos are known for their joyful nature, but the country has not yet reached the standards set by the global Happiness Index — and for understandable reasons.
Happiness expert Dr. Bing Carrion asserts, “Happiness is inherent to Filipinos.”
“We are a smiling race. We laugh at every situation, even the silliest experiences. Happiness is found within oneself, and thanks to the Filipino extended family, we are never alone. This shared company uplifts our spirits, allowing us to find joy in interactions, conversations, communal meals, singing, dancing, and joking,” Dr. Carrion explains.
This observation perfectly encapsulates the Filipino spirit. However, achieving happiness also depends on their living conditions and the quality of services provided by the Philippine government.
Happiness must flow both ways — from the government to its people and vice versa.
Prescriptions for Holiday Happiness
As the holiday season approaches, Dr. Bing Carrion offers practical advice for Filipinos to maintain their happiness: “For most Filipinos, Christmas is about family — celebrating with loved ones at noche buena. But these are merely outward expressions. The true essence of Christmas lies in love, forgiveness, sharing with the less fortunate, and singing Christmas carols.”
She likewise emphasizes the importance of positive thinking, prayer, and meditation as ways to uplift one’s mental and spiritual state.
However, Dr. Carrion also addresses the urgent issue of mental health. “Sadly, our government does not have adequate facilities to treat mental health conditions due to the shortage of practicing psychiatrists and experienced counselors. The Department of Health needs to prioritize and address these mounting concerns.”
Happiness, especially during the holidays, is both a shared cultural trait and a responsibility that extends from personal efforts to systemic support.
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