We are now counting down the days to Christmas Day on December 25. That’s when celebrations surely would go up a notch.
There is tradition, and emotions tightly linked to this special day, and the one after that, on Boxing Day.
Fijians will celebrate this festive season, albeit for different reasons.
For some, the festivities start this weekend, broken by working days on Monday and Tuesday, only to resume on Wednesday and Thursday.
This is a time to unwind, and be with family and friends.
It’s when many people around the world embrace the joy of Christmas and all that it brings.
Some see this as an opportunity to enjoy an extra two days away from work.
Some will kick off everything else and drown themselves in alcohol.
Thousands will use the opportunity to become tourists.
There will be people at work though.
They ensure the processes and systems that enable our nation to churn on, continue rolling.
There are families who may have a loved one who is very sick, or perhaps they are not well-off and are unable to enjoy the occasion.
Christmas Day is a joyous occasion that should be celebrated.
There is great anticipation and expectation.
However, lest we forget, we have an early start to the new school year. School starts On January 13, 2020.
That means, as much as we may want to lose ourselves in the joyous moments, and the festivities, we have to be reminded we also have obligations that must be met.
It means funds must be allocated, and priorities set.
We also have a duty to be careful on our roads.
Travelling times do take up a huge chunk of our days in this period.
So let’s be vigilant, proactive, and adhere to laws that govern road usage. Considering the fact that we are still in the cyclone season that stretches from November to April, it pays to be mindful of what the weather reports reveal.
It is encouraging to see organisations and people reaching out to assist the less fortunate.
In their various little ways, they confirm that there are many good people around us.
That should motivate us.
It should encourage us to be good people.
It should empower us to show concern for others and love one another.
We acknowledge all those who have given up their time and effort to come to the aid of others, and hope they will continue to be shining lights in our lives.
Let’s plan our holidays well and plan to be safe with our loved ones.
