Dear Editor,

It is the season where we eat oxtail, baked chicken, ham, and mutton. It is the season in which we go to the infamous Grand Market on Christmas Eve. It is the season in which we go to church to celebrate the birth of Christ Jesus. It is the season in which we give gifts and the season in which we do major cleaning and renovation.

But have you noticed one common factor in all of the above-mentioned activities? Family and friends. We come together as a family in this season, and for the most part, it is nothing but joy and love. It is the season in which we laugh the most and forget all our troubles — knowing that January is going to be a long month and the utility bills will spike.

But it is the season in which worry is out the window. Then we approach the new year. This is the time that we make our new year’s resolutions. Some of us may put a new car, job, or house on the list. Some put getting in shape or even travelling more on that list, but very few realise what part of the year was and will be the happiest part — Christmas.

Christmas is not the happiest part because of Grand Market or any of the other festivities that would be ‘out of pocket’ to partake in at any other time of the year. Instead, it is something that can happen by choice at any other time of the year and not seem weird. That something is spending some quality family time. And yes, while it may be next to impossible to have a big gathering in the middle of the year because of work and other arrangements, it is not impossible to take some time to spend with your immediate family. This could be a part of everyone’s new year’s resolution. Whether you meet once a month for movie nights or a trip to the beach to unwind and enjoy life, or to just sit at home, relax, and cook some food, just don’t wait on Christmas to be merry when you can be merry with family at any time of the year. Spend more time together and relieve some unnecessary stress; make life fun — intentionally.

When Christmas comes around again, it will catch us in a much better mood than the previous ones. And then, as a family, you make the Christmas merrier when everyone meets again. Plan new outings, set goals together, and try new things for the following year. You will get to see life in a much more positive light and also realise that family and friends are some of life’s most precious gifts to us. Don’t disregard the importance of spending quality time until this time of the year, as there is no telling what can happen and who will make it to the next family dinner.

Spend as much time as possible with loved ones and cherish all the memories.

Merry Christmas to all of you and a Happy New Year!

Ovaun Barrett

ovaunb@gmail.com