What does Christmas mean to you?

For those of us who are Christians, it is a time to reflect on and celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ and to appreciate God’s gift of His only begotten son.

In the Caribbean, where I’m from, Christmas is the most loved and most anticipated holiday of the year.

It is a time when family and friends get together, share gifts and partake of elaborate meals. Oh my!  The ham and Christmas cake, so yummy.  The Christmas trees, decorations and lights create a magical atmosphere.

I believe many of you can relate. But do you know that for some people this is the worst time of the year?  Yes, some people dread this season. Here why:

• Loneliness – Some people may be working or studying far from home and have no one with whom to celebrate the holidays. Can you imagine Christmas without family and friends? No, you can’t. Well for some people, that’s a reality.
• Hospitalization – Many people spend Christmas in the hospital. That puts a damper on the season for both the hospitalized persons and their families.
• Need – Some people lack the basic necessities. They cannot afford a good meal for the holidays. Those with children may not be able to buy them even the cheapest toys.

How can we help?

1. Invite someone home – Do you know someone who will be alone for the holidays? How about inviting that person home? Depending on how well you know the person and the facilities you have available; the invitation could be for the entire holiday or just for Christmas dinner. Either way, I’m sure it will be appreciated.
2. Share your Christmas dinner – Most of us have so much food at Christmas that we end up throwing out some. This year share your dinner with a person or a family that is less fortunate than you are. I don’t mean that you should give them leftovers; I mean dish it out for them and let them enjoy the same dinner that you do.
3. Make a gift of clothes that you don’t need – Some of us,  especially women, have clothes that we bought several months, maybe years ago. We’ve never worn them and we know we never will. Let’s take them out and give them to someone who needs them. This may be the high point of this person’s holiday.
4. Give away the toys that your kids no longer use – If your kids have toys that are in good condition but they don’t use them anymore give them to children who will be happy to have them.
5. Give of your time – Visit a hospital , a home for the elderly or a children’s home.  Spend some time with the patients, seniors or children.  You can talk to them, read to them or just listen to them; some of them have great stories; yes, even the children. These visits will help us to realize how blessed we are to have health and good fortune.
6. Give money – If you can spare a few dollars for someone in need that will definitely help.

What can lonely people do?

First let me tell you what not to do. Do not sit around and mope. Here are a few suggestions as to how you can pass the time:

1. Join with someone who is in a similar position – Do you know someone who is in a similar position as you? If so, you can team up with that person. You guys can prepare a meal and just hang out together. Or if you don’t want to cook you can order in or go to a restaurant.
2. Volunteer somewhere – Places like soup kitchens and children’s homes welcome help during the holidays. Go help out, it will take your mind off your situation and you may be surprised at the joy it brings you.
3. Get a few good movies -Get some pop corn, relax and enjoy some good movies. Maybe you’ve been too busy to watch them, well this is your chance.
4.  Make a playlist and listen to your favorite  music – Make a playlist of all your favorite songs, get comfortable and sing along. Very relaxing. Ask me how I know this?
5. Play games – Check your cell phone or other device for games. Find the ones you like and have some fun.
6. Make a plan for next holiday – Make a plan for next holiday to ensure that it will be better. This may include saving so you can go home or making friends with whom you will be able to share the holidays.

Most of us are fortunate to be able to celebrate the holidays with family and friends. We are blessed with all that we need in order to enjoy the holidays.  Let’s help to make this a memorable holiday for those who are less fortunate.

I also hope that the sharing and caring will not end with the holidays but will become the norm for us.

Happy Holidays to you all.

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