'Tis the Season

I feel like I'm coming down with a cold, a sure sign that the Christmas season is near. Blame the infernal airconditioning at the office. It get colder during the Christmas season. And since we work in a controlled environment, if anyone gets a cold everyone gets a cold. It wouldn't be as hard though if I have the rest that I need. Unfortunately, we have a lot of Christmas carolers calling upon our dilapitated apartment gates. The racket wakes me up. Mahirap na talaga buhay ngayon. They started carolling as early as November 14. Para siguro may pamasko man lang. They brave the risks of being in the streets just to get a few coins worth of of rewards. The streets aren't safe anymore. Not these days, anyway.

Another sign, I've been getting calls from Citibank offering me everything from contests to instant loans that I will have to pay for in 24-months. I'm polite to these callers most of the time. I mean they work for customer service just like me. I understand the situations that they have to deal with. However, I have had it. Since Citibank started using third-party service providers, I have been a lesser-than-happy customer. It's been a hassle paying for my bills. I can't even call then without incurring toll charges (they decommissioned their toll-free number). Now, Citibank's paying thir-party providers to pitch marketing offers to customers. The first call I received a few weeks ago, I told the Rep that I was planning to cancel my card. I also asked to be removed from any calling list. They called me on my cell several times after that. I told the last Rep the same thing, but not before thanking her for the call and then griping about the Citibank service. They record the conversation, you know. At least that will get the Rep off the hook. The comments that I made would allow her to keep her job through these trying times. I still have a little humanity left in me.

Amidst all of the allergies and the materialism, I bid you a season full of reflection and joy. May we all find in our hearts the true reason for celebrating Christmas. Enjoy the seaon, everyone. Wherever you are.