Christmas Hints

Each time I paid Saigon a visit, there’s always a surprise in stored. And in these surprises I find myself whether in awe or flabbergasted. Many times, they appeared as a reminder or as a precious lesson to jot down. 

No matter what it was – every time varied – to mention few… from a typical cuisine to exotic one; from a laid back way of life to civilization; from being reserved to outgoing individual; from simple to complex cultures; from a slumber city to a sleepless society – all these amazed me to the fullest.

My recent visit last week brought another unexpected episode I didn’t think of – those Christmas hints I posted on Facebook or paraphernalia decked before time downtown Saigon. They aren’t just mere pictures but sheer reality eventually conceived a new story.

It was still November when I came in this time, at least few days before December, and yet shops everywhere including malls were already in bling-bling and in dazzling colors telling hints for the season.

It was an unusual welcome. Trust me I’ve been here long enough for intuition. This city has never been this eager to adorn attractive stuff and for gilding the night to announce the season.

“Cool!” I said peeping through the bus’s window.

The next day, I found myself taking photos in endless amazement. And from there instilled another question my mind couldn’t wait to know – “What’s behind those Christmas hints?”

I thought and thought carefully trying not to be subjective about it, but my heart was so irresistible for such temptation – to speak out my mind – they’re but pure ads or commercialism – one obvious means only to attract clients taking advantage of the season. 

 Without beating around the bush, this didn’t surprise me at all except for such enthusiasm decking in time for the sake of commercialization with no intention remembering the celebrant.

As I clicked my old camera, and noticed every thing including bits and pieces, I couldn’t help but utter objective judgment – they’re only Christmas hints – in all forms – trying to entice every naked eye with one simple message – BE MERRY and HAVE FUN!

Then in one glance a way, came a surprise which urged me to click more. They are 5 separate words in huge sizes, in gild – FAITH, LOVE, JOY, PEACE, and HOPE – hanging on the glass walls for everyone that passes along Le Loi Street to see.

“This is it. It’s so awesome!” I said as I took one last shot.

Thanks to the one that came up such an excellent idea. I may not know his/her intention for such a concept, yet out of those seemingly Christmas hints expose true messages every mankind should be hearing.    

It was a surprised indeed even from those Christmas hints.

Happy Holidays!