Times are hard, but the spirit of Christmas lives

I am writing this piece with five days to Christmas Day, December 25th.

I must confess that until last Sunday when we sang hymn number 269 ‘Silent night’ as the opening hymn during the English service at St James CCAP in Blantyre, I almost took it that Christmas had been “postponed” this year.

My point is that the mood is kind of subdued and my thoughts were confirmed by a headline ‘Tight Christmas as devaluation subdues spending’ on the front page of The Nation edition of December 20 2023.

The story summed up thoughts and sentiments of various people regarding preparations for this year’s twin festivities of Christmas and New Year’s Day.

“There will be no Christmas cheer for me and my family,” that is how Irish potatoes vendor Menard Kachepa, a resident of Mbayani Township in Blantyre, reacted.

“Christmas is now a luxury rather than a necessity for me. I am more worried about my day-to-day life now, how I will pay my bills and help my parents in the village.”

Kachepa’s plight mirrors what many Malawians are going through ahead of the Christmas and New Year festivities due to the impact of the 44 percent kwacha devaluation implemented in November as well as the general weakening of the economy. The devaluation weakened people’s purchasing power, prompting cuts in spending.

From experience no year has generally been all good. There are always high and low moments, such is life. In these situations, what matters is our attitude or reaction that makes the difference.

Trending local musician Zeze Kingston has a song titled ‘Kusangalala’ in which he laments that disappointments are so many in this world, but he had chosen to be happy, to celebrate the positives. That should be the spirit.

It is four days to Christmas Day today, the day when billions of Christians worldwide celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, their Lord and Saviour.

Despite the mixed fortunes the year presented, Christmas cannot be wished away. Businesses are running festive season promotions while believers and non-believers alike are stocking up for the festive season.

Christmas Day and New Year’s Day festive period has also often acted as the right time for people to reflect on their personal and organisational growth plans.

When you go out shopping or merry-making, in whatever manner you spend your money, you should avoid falling into the trap of impulse-buying or indeed unnecessary debts. Impulse buying is where one buys items without planning and can be avoided by drawing a shopping list and having the discipline to stick to it. In other words, avoid the temptation to get carried away.

Travel for leisure is another main activity during Christmas Day and New Year’s Day festivities. If you did not budget for such trips, avoid making unplanned trips simply because your neighbours or peers are going to the lake or some holiday destination and are posting the highlights on social media.

Most people plan such retreats in advance by making their bookings and payments as early as mid-year, so do not just go with the flow.

Thieves also want to reap where they did not sow, especially where people have travelled out of town. In the home, ensure that windows and doors are securely closed and properly locked before leaving.

Besides, do not entertain strangers masquerading as service providers from utility companies.

To those who drive, please drive carefully and strictly observe prescribed speed limits as it is better to be late than “the late”.

Do not drink and drive. Do not text-and-drive. Remember, speed thrills, but it also kills.

Where you are a passenger on public transport, keep an eye on the drivers’ conduct because your safety is entrusted in them, as such, do not let them text while driving or indeed consume alcoholic beverages in the line of duty.

This year it is a tight Christmas due to the tough economic environment, but the spirit of Christmas still lives.

Do good, be rich in good works and give generously to others where you can afford.

Wishing you all a Merry Christmas!