The people of Bali have more reasons to be worried about climate change, which has the focus of a conference ended Friday in their paradise island. Apparently, their concern is based on the fact that the bounty of nature is among the attractions they offer to visitors from all over the world through their No.1 industry – tourism.

If you take a look at the postcards on our back cover which I collected during a trip to the island late last month, you'd understand the Balinese concern over the urgent need to protect Nature and the environment. The photos are samples of the diversity of attractions of the island – ranging from its heritage of culture and spirituality to the fine beaches, the rushing waves, the artistry of the natives and the fruits of the field.

Thus, the slogan, “Glorious, Bali Island ,” is no hyperbole or an overselling pitch for the island-province of more than 3 million people.

Another travel story focuses on the 15-day pilgrimage and trip made by a group of Negrenses to Europe where they visited Portugal , Spain , Monaco , France and Italy . The group members had a good dose also of heritage and history during the trip, where they, likewise, had the opportunity to visit the palatial homes of queens and kings. Nothing was more memorable, though, than their being part of the audience with the Pope at St. Peter's Square and Basilica.

Today is the start of the misa de gallo season that lasts until Christmas Day. The faithful brave the morning cold and fight the hangover from the previous night's party to savor the spirit of the season and fellowship with those who cherish the tradition. In the Catholic continent of South America, we were told, the celebration takes place at night, when people re-enact the futile search of Mary and Joseph for an inn on their way to Bethlehem . The traditional procession is replete with prayers and songs.

To promote the mood of the season, our columnist in Chicago , Nelia Dingcong-Bernabe, writes about how they manage to blend the east and the west in their celebration of Christmas. Among the rites they apparently miss is the misa de gallo, as dawns in the American Midwest come with the extreme cold bites of winter and even the most faithful would rather avoid it because the rituals of suiting up with several layers is by itself a major effort already. Instead, they settle for evening masses or worship.

A Filipino exchange student also wrote about Christmas in the United States in our Young Lives section. Patrick Evandel Manlapaz admits that more than the gifts wrapped in colorful tinsel, Christmas has a profound meaning – beyond the heaps of material gifts.

Christmas is, a little more than a week away. Be in the mood, especially in giving and sharing with those who have less, and feel the Spirit why Jesus Christ came to Earth.