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Flying kisses only!

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How many days are left before Christmas? Less than three weeks! No wonder  people are violating rules and going out of their homes these days. Who or what can prevent the spirit of Christmas from overwhelming everyone? I think even non-Christians look forward to it, because this is one universal holiday for them and holy day for those of the Christian faith. People all over the world anticipate it, because it is the greatest fiesta of all.

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It is also the most anticipated day for children, especially those who still believe in Santa Claus. But I think fewer kids now are still as gullible as we used to be. But it did not take too many Christmasses before we got on to it! But even if we  already knew who Santa Claus really was, we never let on, and kept the secret, fearful that “he”, might not come anymore once identified! I am sure many other children did that, too.

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It is strange, though, that we are having this kind of weather so close  to the most important birthday of mankind. I guess this is what the weather people refer to as “climate change”. But we still have to reckon with this unfamiliar new virus, named “corona” after its shape. It is still so easily transmitted that everybody has to observe every precaution against it. Although there are some hopeful signs, in our city, for instance, that it is not as vicious as it used to be, let us not let our guards down. Do not let the virus be the gift you give to others, or let others give to you! Don’t ever consider yourself invulnerable to this scourge that has uet to be conquered by science and medicine.

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I heard, though, that Russia is sharing the vaccine they have discovered with us . That is very generous of them, and I admire President Duterte for thanking them and even inviting their president, Vladimir Putin for a state visit to the Philippines. If we get the vaccine and they work, why, Russia could be an everlasting friend  of our country. And if he does accept the invitation to visit the Philippines, I bet a lot of Pinoys will be waving Russian flaglets wherever he passes!

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But is seems different countries have different choices of the vaccines against the COVID that are now available. In the United States, the one by Pfizer is said to be the preferred one, but in the United  Kingdon, they have a choice between Pfizer and Biontech. I don’t know yet what our country is adopting. The President has not made an official announcement, but I believe we will know soon. As the saying goes: “Time is of the essence” and it is very appropriate as far as this pandemic is concerned.

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There is some hopeful news about vaccines lately. I hear that Malacañang has issued Executive Order No. 121 authorizing the emergency distribution of vaccines, possibly in January, or early next year, I hope the news will encourage those who deal with positive cases to keep their hopes up with the thought that help is coming for the people. But we will all feel better when what is discovered is a sure cure. Remember what the miracle drug Penicillin became upon discovery? I forget now the name of the drug discovered that easily cured tuberculosis. So let us never lose hope, prayers and science will soon find a way.

***

Meanwhile, devotees of the Black Nazarene in the famous Quiapo Church in Manila must be very disappointed at the new restrictions, prohibiting the touching or kissing of the statue of the Black Nazarene, as they used to. I have witnessed such acts during my visits to the church, but I always  remember my father’s warnings against that practice. My father was  a health buff, and was very strict about cleanliness, which was probably why we his children did not get infected with most childhood ailments. Anyway, the priests at Quiapo Church could advise devotees to just send flying kisses to their favorite image of Jesus the Nazarene!*

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