THE YULETIDE SEASON is a special time of the year. It is the season in which people around the world engage in festivities to commemorate and celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. As we celebrate Christmas, we do so by promoting peace and love as our watch words.
Barbadians like all other people around the world are captivated by the spirit of Christmas, and resort to expressing this feeling through the giving and sharing of gifts with family, love ones and friends.
The economic hardship of the times will do little to bring joy to some Barbadian homes this year, as many face the reality of being unemployed; having been laid off, retrenched or just unable to secure employment.
It is for this reason that those of us who are fortunate to be employed should take time out to remember those less fortunate members in our communities who are experiencing pain and suffering.
It is important at this time that as members of a Christian society, our actions are guided by a spirit of compassion, and that we will demonstrate to the world that we are our brothers’ keeper.
Therefore, as a caring and loving people, Barbadians are reminded of the words of the Holy Bible, Matthew 25:34: “For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in. I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me”.
Further, Matthew 25:40: reminds us, “Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine you did for me”.
This Christmas, let us as people not lose sight of the true meaning of Christmas. It is not about purchasing and receiving gifts, or overeating and drinking, but more importantly, it is all about humanity, and the perpetuation of the idea of hope for a brighter tomorrow; which is grounded in the realm of unrelenting faith.
To all Barbadians whether at home or abroad, the Congress of Trade Unions and Staff Associations of Barbados extends best wishes for a Merry Christmas, and reminds you to let the spirit of Christmas live within your heart; not only today, but throughout the coming year.
