Actually, there is a movie of the same title, it depicts a woman’s journey of discovery of what is important in life. Time and time again, each one is reminded to decide to know ourselves and act according to what makes us happy.
Traditionally, Christmas season is time to be happy because as Christians, we renew our commitment to follow the two main commandments: Love God above all else; and Love your neighbor as youself.
As Christmas time occurs at the end of the year, it also coincides with the time to reflect on the past, treasure the present, and find hope in the future.
The “eat” portion should be over after New Year. Filipinos know how to party and make a feast complete with cholesterol-laden lechon or humba.
But the essence of “breaking bread is to rekindle the bonding of family and friends, renew our spirit of connection with our loved ones, both here or abroad. This is our way of letting them know that they have a special place in our hearts. However humble is the meal, the food not only fills the stomachs but also warms the heart. People see each other differently after they partake of a meal.
The “pray” portion actually is an ongoing mission, accented by the Misa de Gallo for Catholics, services for other churches, with the same aim, to raise to the high heavens, our yearnings for good health, whole families, progressive and united nation under responsible leadership.
Self actualization of any person begins with the fulfillment of basic needs-food, clothing and shelter, and for most Filipino, this is a continuing prayer.
Civic groups, charitable individuals, and religious associations have tried to answer these prayers by sharing gifts, meals or just to commune with those who have less.
This is not a meaningless gesture, but an act of prayer from a grateful heart.
This year, the Rotary Club of Dumaguete-Mother Club led by President Nehru Yurong, gave gifts to the inmates of the City Jail as a token of assistance in their journey towards rehabilitation, a reminder that once rehabilitated, they can be productive citizens if they abide by the law.
The “love” portion is the most challenging of all because you can only love if you love yourself, and this love is reflected on how you relate to others.
One who is greedy is exemplified by one public official who abuses his position to obtain money, power and influence, this person does not have love.
Any act of corruption erodes the humanity of the person himself, and when multiplied by many in a society, it dehumanizes a whole nation. It will facilitate the return to a survival of the fittest mentality, descend into chaos, as seen in countries like Sudan and Haiti.
This is so sad because if only we have love, it will be easier to act human. It is said: “It is easy to be human, but it is so hard to behave like one!”
Well. Eat, pray, love, and let’s welcome the New Year with faith, hope and charity.
