Through My Eyes

While we are all enjoying the beautiful weather and the bounty of our hard work, let's take this time to consider all those less fortunate than us. Those who have lost their loved ones and those caught up in the war zones and political and social struggles around the world.

Let's unite against the oppression of women and children in our country. As most of us will soon be sitting down to pool braais and festive Christmas feasts lets think of those who are going to be hungry and alone.

Lets take our time to consider the immense struggle of the people in Syria, their future, uncertain and hanging in the hands of dictators and UN vultures, their dream of liberation quickly turning into a nightmare. Loosing their loved ones in battles that they hoped would give their children a better chance in life.

Let us not forget the people of Palestine, and the weak and vulnerable, displaced and homeless of the world that will be spending this Christmas in shelters, on streets and under bridges.

Let us think of the Buddhist monks who have been living in exile and are fighting occupation of their holy sights and their homeland, driven to utter madness and complete resignationdriven to suicide.

Lets consider the elderly, forgotten and unloved, living out their lives in absolute misery and solitude, as inconvenient as it may seem, a visit to an old age home or hospice should be on your Christmas Shopping list.

For most of us living in South Africa, it is hard to conceive just how desperate the everyday lives of some people are. "So why is Christmas a time of giving to the needy?" You might ask. Where and when did the tradition of giving to charity during the Christmas season begin?

The tradition dates back to the Middle Ages to give gifts to the poor or to servants the day after Christmas, the Feast of Saint Stephen. Servants were allowed to take the 26th off to visit their families. Their employers gave each servant a box containing gifts, money or food to take home with them.

In the 1700's, Anglican parishes in the United Kingdom would ask parishioners to put money into a donation box during Advent. On the day after Christmas, the boxes were broken open and the money distributed among the poor. The practice has ceased, but the day lives on in many countries as Boxing Day.

Lets unite in goodwill and compassion and give this Festive Season. Every ounce of our generosity will make a difference. Lets unite and create a peaceful and safe Festive Season for all. Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to all of you out there. May you be blessed with the bounty of love, happiness and kindness this Festive Season!!!