The Christmas season is here again. It is the time to show abundant love, celebrate and have reunions. It is the season of joy, which is re-enacted annually in remembrance of the coming of the Saviour of the whole world.
But the big question is this: what seed should one sow during this Yuletide period? Yes, the times are tough, with the economy worsening and the cost of living rising daily as inflation continues to pummel family incomes. Already the relationship between couples is also beginning to get a little tense, on account of demands for money to buy Christmas things. This is an obvious wrong sign that there is a lack of understanding and poor communication between the husband and wife. Really, the present economic difficulties should not be a reason for spouses to tear at each other.
I remember that when we were growing up, right from the end of September we would earnestly look towards Christmas and the freebies that come with it. Part of Christmas expectation back then as children was not to be given any punishment, no matter the offence including the little lies; one would just get a stern look or sound warning not to repeat the offence. Getting fitted clothes was considered sacrosanct and the joy of Christmas exuded everywhere. Life back then was far better, unlike now that Nigerians are groaning in hunger, pains and frustration caused by economic challenges and poor political leadership. With the removal of fuel subsidy in May, 2023, it has been a daily strive to survive in the present hard times. Even babies are not spared because their parents struggle to get their cereal which has gone out of reach. The effect of the harsh economic situation in the country does not exempt anyone as it takes its toll on the rich and the poor, the old and the young.
Most families might not live up to expectations during the Yuletide because of the economic challenge. That is why all hands must be on deck to show kindness and abundant love this season. There are indications that even special Christmas food might be lacking on the tables of many families with the rate prices of food stuff are going up. Therefore, this is not the rosy time to celebrate the yuletide to the fullest as usual; but in a situation where the season is carefully planned to succeed, it shall surely end in praise by traveling to reunite with loved ones, enough eating and drinking; display of new outfits, activities and events to celebrate the season up to the New Year.
Now, this is the time to show real and great love among us all as human beings – friends, neighbours, couples and in-laws. Let us bear in mind that behind a powerful look could be some midnight disturbing sobs. It is a time to come together and agree as a couple and live up to expectations. Wives, bear it in mind that this is not the season for the usual expensive Christmas clothes for you and the children; but a wise woman knows what to do. She understands the tone of the tempo and would use her mastery of strategy to hold her family together without being embarrassed. She is the powerhouse that would think out what would definitely work wonders in her home. Though, the financial challenge might not give all that is needed but wisdom will always rule. Woman can create wonders with the support of their men and things will fall into pleasant places. One could gather the children and give them options of going to the cinema, driving round some cozy places, visit recreational parks, settle for the beach views, trying out new food like home-made akara, shawarma with the kids; opening them to new educative ideas, attend shows that are supervised by parents, just spread the options for them to choose; and watch them roll over hills in celebration. One might be surprised at the level of happy moments that would be created from the options until when the economy bounces back. The family would also be happy instead of bickering and having unnecessary arguments and quarrels. Use feminism as a woman, spice it up with wisdom, do some mix-match, work on the subconsciousness of the children. Your effort will throw up some surprises and see your family enjoy the season without hassles. Husbands know that you, the wives, are the chief pilot and the powerhorse; whichever direction you want your family to go, that is exactly where they would be seen. The situation on ground is not funny, but with kindness, trust in God, obedience and communication, all financial battles would be won. Do not let your family, especially your wife, squeeze out blood while managing to keep the family from shame and embarrassment. As you stand with her spiritually, emotionally and financially, you will pull through and have the last laugh.
Interestingly, there are individuals who have in excess. This is the time to shock others with your display of empathy and kindness. Neighbours can come together, contribute and celebrate the Yuletide amid laughter, dancing and eating. They could choose to contribute foodstuff and prepare together and enjoy the season. These are not normal times but could be added as a flavour to cushion the situation, yet enjoy the season. Families could also come together and make the best use of the opportunity; just fill in the gaps and have general fun. Church members, who are in the habit of going to the orphanages to showcase and take pictures, please search for the recent post by Kiss Daniel, a popular musician, post where he admonished people to look inwards before going to the orphanage to do charity. It is a deep expression of what happens on a daily basis. People would jump close-by responsibilities and jump out to become popular-jingo in expenses. Most churches were guilty of this during COVID-19. They left members who couldn’t afford food and medication and were donating money to the state government. This is the season to show pure, abundant love. Those forever receivers, you can extend your hands to others. One of the widows who attended a programme where she was blessed. In return she visited the convener of the event with a full Eva bottle of Izal in appreciation and said, “In the season of Christmas, I am grateful for the other day.”
Now, I also want us to know that we can practice brotherhood in its purest form, especially when life is devoid of contentions, intrigues and manipulations for power, position and material acquisition. Men and women could live for each other. This is the season when we all understand it is not how well we live that matters but how well we help others to live. Times are really hard and tough. Knowing that it is not how much we accomplish in life that matters, but how much we help others to accomplish in life and this is what humanity is all about.
In life, there has never been a time when and where humanity failed the litmus test. Humanity is not devoid of alms giving, putting a smile on someone’s face, especially through a gift. But then again, finance being a major factor in everyday life is not the only gift that people can get in this season. Marriages that are not working could be revived and made to bounce back in this season. Preachers for once should shift and focus on the loving messages that could bring and glue couples this season. I felt proud when the Dikemba Age Grade from Ulakwo in Owerri West, Imo State, which has quietly existed for over 50-years did something great. Members interacted informally until it was formalized into an association. Now, one of their members Canice John had challenges in his marriage from almost the first day, while also raising children amid the marital challenges. But on one particular Sunday during the Christmas season, all the other members agreed that their best Yuletide gift for their member would be to settle his near-divorce case with his wife. These brother-members moved to John’s home as early as 6:00 am, prepared to spend the whole day with their brother. After hours of deliberations peace and joy were restored. What fellowship is greater than this? It was a great decision and the best Christmas gift so far that Canice and his wife got for the year. That visit, deliberation and caution endeared them with so much happiness, bond and happy reunion till date. To the John’s, money was not their challenge, but that marital friendship was lacking in them until a reconciliatory move was made and it worked perfectly.
Dear Nigerians, the season is not only for merriment, but for reconciliations, forgiveness, patience, love and opportunity to move on with the right disposition. For who he is, Son of God, son of Man, Saviour of the world, and because of the life He lived and all He accomplished for sinners everywhere the joy in Jesus is sure. Therefore, let no one feel bad about less Christmas spent. The joy it brings makes the difference.