Delroy Chuck
CHRISTMAS IS a time of peace, joy and happiness; at least, so it should be. It is a time to think of families and friends, and of those who are less fortunate and unable to enjoy the celebration, the wonder and bounty of the festive season. It is a time when we reflect on life's misery, its ups and downs, and give thanks for the many blessings we enjoy but take for granted. For Christians, we reflect on the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ who is our bedrock for all times and all seasons.
MATERIALISM
Christmas has definitely descended into materialism when it should be a revival and renewal of the human spirit. To be sure, Christians have lamented the shift from the celebration of Christ's birth to what has become a pagan celebration. Yet, I do not necessarily see an inconsistency, as it is possible to have both. Sadly, far too many fail to reflect on Christ's birth and the message of honesty, purity, unselfishness and love that He brought and enjoined His followers to practise.
Materialism has become a selfish pursuit when it can, and should, be another means to bring joy and happiness to others.
Actually, capitalism and Christianity are complementary. The provision of material goods cannot be unchristian. Inventors, producers and marketers of material goods are engaged in unselfish service and providing consumers with choices and attractions to satisfy their needs. Think of the great inventions and wonderful products of our time - aeroplanes, cars, fridges, watches, computers, television, cellphones, etc. - that have made individuals, institutions and countries rich and wealthy. They have also made life and human existence more meaningful and happier. In many respects, these inventions and products are marketed and driven by capitalism but unless they can satisfy the consumers they will not sell. Unlike the liberation theologians, therefore, I think capitalism can be an unselfish endeavour and the best vehicle to satisfy the needs and wants of people everywhere.
Christmas ought to be a time to extend a helping hand and to think primarily of others. In every way, we can engage in some act of caring and sharing. Outside our circle of family and friends, and the enjoyment of the wonderful office parties, perhaps we can extend our bounty and care to the many who, to use an inner-city phrase, are 'flat on their face'. We can think of and act to help the old, sick, 'shut-in', unfortunates and forgotten. Even at this time of the year, perhaps the only time, we can visit an old people's home, or even the elderly in some inner-city community, to bring greetings and a timely cheer to someone for whom it will mean so much. We do not have to bring a gift, even though it helps, but people just want to know that they are remembered, even for once, at this time of the year.
SHORTCOMINGS AND SETBACKS
As a people, we endure many shortcomings and setbacks, most of which are caused by human failings. Many will enjoy Christmas abroad, some in freezing and unkind climate, when they could be here enjoying the warm, friendly, weather. Crime has scared away thousands and has become our greatest nightmare. Murders will reach another record, probably in excess of 1,600 this year. For us who remain here, and want to see Jamaica resume its path to become the preferred place to visit and live, the challenge becomes even more arduous each year.
Life in Jamaica should have been better, much better. We have been spared many of the ills of humankind - wars, plagues and terrorism - but we have not made enough human progress and built on nature's blessings to make Jamaica a clean, attractive, safe, secure and enticing place to visit and reside. Still, even while we lament what Jamaica could have been, we must take time out to give thanks for our many blessings and the opportunities to enjoy the wonderful climate and the beauty of our island paradise. Wherever you may be, a merry and peaceful Christmas.
Delroy Chuck is an attorney-at-law and Member of Parliament. He can be contacted by email at delchuck@hotmail.Com.
