Don’t Forsake Christmas Despite Hurricane Melissa
For many Jamaicans, the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa is still very fresh. Long after the rain and scary winds have passed, the reality remains: many households are still without electricity. Others are struggling to access water and basic necessities; if not without permanent shelter entirely. For some families, daily survival has understandably taken precedence over any thought of celebration.
In the midst of this, there have been growing calls for us to forsake Christmas or the holidays altogether this year. And to be clear, this sentiment is not without merit. For those who are still without the essentials of life, Christmas is not only disheartening; it is simply not the focus right now. Survival is.
But for those of us who can—in whatever small or limited way we may be able to—I believe we should still celebrate Christmas and the joy of the season.
Not because we are ignoring the devastation. Not because we are pretending nothing has happened. And certainly not because we are masking the reality of hardship with false optimism. Rather, because keeping our spirits up during difficult seasons like this is necessary.
Even if it is only to acknowledge the day itself. Even if the entire season cannot be observed. And even if traditions must be scaled back or reimagined, there is still value in experiencing Christmas.
What can linger, however, is the emotional and mental toll when sadness is allowed to take full control. When grief becomes all-consuming, it can quickly turn into a downward spiral. And it is often in moments of isolation and despair that the mind becomes the most vulnerable.
This is why, where possible, lifting one’s spirits matters more than we sometimes realize.
It doesn’t have to be grand. It doesn’t have to be expensive. It may be as simple as spending time with a loved one. Visiting family. Inviting someone over. Sharing a quick meal, however modest. Sitting together on Christmas Day and enjoying good conversation.
These moments remind us that we are not alone. That joy, even in fragments, still exists. That life, albeit shaken, has not stopped.
So celebrating Christmas this year is not about being in denial. It is about resistance, Resistance against despair, resistance against hopelessness and giving yourself permission to be in good spirits.
