EDITORIAL: Celebrating Christmas during tough times

Christmas is but a few days away and for many that means the final few hours of shopping and other last-minute domestic preparations before the big day and the climax of the holiday festivities.

For others though, Christmas Day is not filled with joy. In fact, the spirit of Christmas may be lost on those who have just suffered through the death of a friend or family member, or those who have already lost someone and who find it difficult to cope during the holidays. Cheerful music, colourful lights and an overabundance of happiness maximise a social connection for some people, but for others they simply serve to drive home the absence of a loved one and support the slide into depression.

There are also those who focus on financial hardships and lament their situations, especially on Christmas Day. For them, joy and cheer are not to be found until Barbados’ economy has turned around and income increases and expenses decline. Furthermore, with the ongoing global pandemic, the atmosphere for many is decidedly less festive than years gone by as people contend with the stark reality of the health risks associated with a virus which this country has thankfully kept at bay, and the major impact that it has had on our local economy.

Give selflessly

Yes, there are thousands of people in this country and for each one of them Christmas will have a different meaning. It will either be a time to celebrate, or a time to lament. Yet, for Christians and those who believe in God and Jesus Christ, Christmas Day will be a time to rejoice, for it is on this day that the Saviour of the human race, and the world as we know it, was born.

As the story goes, Jesus was a gift from God who loved us so much that He gave us His most precious gift, His son. God gave selflessly, and His son also – performing miracles and acts of kindness throughout his lifetime. This theme of selflessness should be acknowledged and emulated by all. People need to think of others and not always of themselves.

Ironically, by doing so one may find that one’s personal problems do not seem so overbearing. Hence, everyone should try to give by showing charity, kindness and compassion to others all year round, especially in light of the current economic climate. Also, consider other people’s plight and seek to give emotional support however possible.

As we get ready to usher in Christmas, get back to basics. Reflect on the origin of Christmas and why it is celebrated. Teach youngsters the lessons to be learned from the Bible story and show them, by example, that Christmas is not all about materialism. Go to church and not only listen to the sermon, but get to know your brothers and sisters in the congregation as well.

So, to everyone in Barbados, Happy Holiday and Merry Christmas. Let peace and love reign!

Barbados Advocate

Mailing Address:
Advocate Publishers (2000) Inc
Fontabelle, St. Michael, Barbados

Phone: (246) 467-2000
Fax: (246) 434-2020 / (246) 434-1000