Christmas in the United Kingdom: Traditions, food, and festive fun

 

Christmas decorations in London

Christmas is celebrated differently in different parts of England. Northern Ireland, Wales, and Scotland each have their own traditions and practices. England is home to a diverse range of religious communities, in addition to Christians, each of which observes Christmas in a unique cultural and religious manner.

 

The biggest holiday of the year in the UK is Christmas, which is observed on December 25 as a public holiday with most companies, banks, and schools closed. It is widely commemorated by people of many backgrounds as a time for family, festive meals, and gift-giving, although it holds significant religious meaning for Christians as the celebration of Jesus' birth.

 

Decorations like Christmas trees, lights, and ribbons start to appear in houses, streets, and public areas throughout the festive season, which usually starts in early December. Prince Albert, Queen Victoria's husband, popularized the Christmas tree custom in the 19th century.

 

Roast turkey, stuffing, roast potatoes, Brussels sprouts, pigs in blankets, and gravy are typically served at a traditional Christmas meal. Desserts like mince pies or Christmas pudding, which are frequently burned with brandy, come next. During lunch, families frequently pull Christmas crackers, making a pop and revealing small gifts, jokes, and paper crowns.

 

Children usually wait for gifts in stockings or beneath the tree, leaving mince pies and a glass of milk for Father Christmas and a carrot for Rudolph and his reindeer. Church events, such as midnight mass and carol singing in public areas, are common ways to commemorate Christmas Eve.

 

Boxing Day (December 26th), the day after Christmas, is a public holiday that is now known for post-Christmas sales and shopping. Traditionally, it is associated with delivering gifts to service workers. On Christmas Day, public transportation has a shortened schedule, and most services are completely suspended, although airports are nevertheless crowded with passengers.

 

Every year on Christmas Day, the king delivers the Royal Christmas Message, a long-standing custom. The traditional English Christmas is always connected with mistletoe, a decorated Christmas tree, and stockings hung around the house as gifts, notwithstanding the variety of customs.

 

The majority of us are only aware of Christmas in England through vibrant advertisements and films. Nonetheless, this nation has a long history as well as a wide range of customs and traditions.

 

Did you realize that this is where the concept of sending postcards came from? It took place in 1843, following the printing of the first postcard. A Christingle is a traditional handcrafted object in the United Kingdom. It is an orange with a candle inside and the center cut out. This represents Christ's Light.

 

How about the colorful candy cane? Another traditional holiday food is the candy cane. It tastes like cinnamon or mint and is a white sweet with red stripes. It actually resembles the letter J (Jesus). What about the Christmas stockings? This is a famous Christmas treat for kids in England.

 

Santa Claus is the recipient of the gift of socks on the mantelpiece. He puts presents for the kids through the chimney using them, while the kids leave cookies and milk next to the Christmas tree in exchange.

Compilation of Christmas and other scriptural narratives for readers’ curiosity

 

It is God’s word that sustains the soul and spirit

Christmas and biblical writings captivate readers as they delve into the deep theological meaning of the nativity story, highlighting how the birth of Jesus signifies the dawn of the gospel and the completion of God's redemptive plan.

 

These articles emphasize that the Christmas narrative transcends a simple historical account, representing instead a profound expression of divine love in which God took human form to restore the relationship between humanity and Himself.

 

The arrival of the Magi, the presence of Gentile women such as Ruth and Rahab in Jesus's lineage, and Simeon's declaration that Jesus would be a light for the Gentiles all illustrate how the Messiah's purpose encompasses every nation. This reveals God's enduring commitment to global outreach, evident from the start.

 

Furthermore, the historical richness of Christmas traditions uncovers a multifaceted blend of religious and secular elements, spanning from early pagan celebrations to the development of contemporary practices such as the Christmas tree and Santa Claus.

 

This history illustrates how the observance has served as an occasion for spiritual contemplation while also acting as a catalyst for cultural change, alternating between phases of extravagance and profound piety.

 

The articles also explore the persistent difficulty of maintaining Christ at the core in the face of commercialization and evolving cultural trends, encouraging the faithful to concentrate on worship, hope, and joy grounded in the incarnation.

 

A common thread woven through these texts is that Christmas represents far more than a single date; it is a period of rejuvenation, contemplation, and honoring the Incarnation, the profound event when “the Word became flesh and dwelt among us.”

 

This deep enigma, reenacted each year, still evokes wonder, even though routine can occasionally soften its magnificence. Here is a collection of engaging Christmas and other scriptural narratives gathered in one place to meet readers' curiosity.

 

1.Christmas in Egypt and the celebration of traditions

 

2.CHRISTMAS CELEBRATION IN ETHIOPIA

 

3.WAS JESUS CHRIST REALLY BORN ON CHRISTMAS DAY - DECEMBER 25?

 

4. DID JESUS TRULY DIE ON THE CROSS?

 

5Exploring the cultural significance of winter traditions

 

6. ENJOY YOUR XMAS & NEW YEAR'S EVE, WITHOUT ANY TRAGEDY

 

7. Good Friends: Wishing You Merry Christmas And Happy New Year

 

9. Why should Switzerland be your next travel destination?

 

Jesus said, "Man shall not live by bread alone," to emphasize that human life depends not only on physical sustenance but also on obedience to and dependence on every word that comes from God.

 

This statement was made during His temptation in the wilderness, after fasting for forty days and nights, when Satan urged Him to turn stones into bread to satisfy His hunger. The objection to Satan’s command also reveals that man needs to be spiritually strong.

 

Below is a link to other biblical narratives to build everyone spiritually strong to stand firm against this world that is losing its love for humanity rapidly.

Read more: Other faith inspiring biblical articles

 

Christmas in Egypt and the celebration of traditions

 

Christmas festivities in Egypt. Photo credit: Egypt tours

In Egypt, Christmas is more than simply a religious holiday; it's a chance to celebrate in a joyous atmosphere. Activities include going out in public, watching entertainment, and engaging in commercial activities that cater to all demographics.

 

One of the earliest Christian denominations to arise under the Pharaohs' reign is Egyptian Christianity. Between 536 and 580 AD, the Coptic Christian Church was founded. Although the Coptic Church is not regarded as an Orthodox Church by the rigorous church canon, the majority of contemporary Copts in Egypt practice a kind of Christianity that is comparable to Orthodox Christianity.

 

Since different Christian faiths in Egypt celebrate Christmas on different dates according to the Gregorian and Oriental calendars, this festival takes on a great deal of detail.

 

A religious sermon is given by priests, and the Copts and the Egyptian families dine following the service. Every year on the evening of January 6, churches that adhere to the Eastern calendar celebrate Christmas with thousands of Coptic Orthodox people.

 

The mass starts in the evening and ends early on January 7th. On this day, there are customs unique to the birth of Christ, such as special prayers, giving to the poor, and some Christmas music.

 

The customs of the Egyptians in celebrating Christmas

 

The celebration of Christmas in Egypt is marked by a variety of unique social customs and traditions, in addition to the religious rites observed by various denominations, making it a unique festival in Egyptian culture.

 

Egypt's tourism sector has made significant efforts to satisfy the demands of visitors since tourism is a top priority for the nation's economy. This relates to how the Orthodox and Catholic calendars prepare for and celebrate Christmas and the New Year. Egypt celebrates Christmas and the New Year three times a year.

 

Eating special foods that Egyptians prefer on Christmas Eve is one of the most prominent customs associated with the holiday. For many Egyptians, "fish" is the main meal, "cakes" are one of the unique sweets that are prepared and given to family and friends, and "maamoul" is made especially for the occasion.

 

Christmas trees, which are frequently the focal point of public areas in cities, are decorated with colorful lights and decorations, and churches are adorned with bells and sky-illuminating lighting to create a festive atmosphere across the entire nation.

 

Gift-giving between individuals and families is one of the genuine Christmas traditions since it allows friends and family to show their love and devotion for one another. Everybody gives gifts, which are mostly household goods, clothing, and kids' toys.

 

The best places to visit during the Christmas season in Egypt

 

Egypt provides a range of natural locations that are perfect for enjoying winter, combining temperate temperatures with breathtaking scenery and distinctive outdoor experiences. 

The country's varied topography, which includes coastal reefs and desert oases, offers plenty of chances for nature enthusiasts looking for adventure and leisure throughout the cooler months.

 

With famous locations like the Hanging Church, St. Sergius Church, and the Coptic Museum in Coptic Cairo, which come to life with decorations and nativity scenes, this city is a must-see due to its rich Christian past.

 

The Cairo Opera House frequently produces Christmas-themed shows like The Nutcracker, and the city also stages events like Zed Park's Winter Wonderland, which features festive lights, attractions, and markets.

 

Luxor and Aswan: These Nile River cities have perfect winter weather for touring historic temples, including Abu Simbel, Luxor Temple, and Karnak, which are exquisitely lit at night.

 

Aswan is highly recommended due to its lower temperatures, beautiful river views, and accessibility to places like Elephantine Island and the Philae Temple. Nile cruises, which often feature festive meals and entertainment, are a popular way to experience the area during this time of year.

 

Sharm El Sheikh and Hurghada: With their warm weather, sandy beaches, and colorful coral reefs that are suitable for diving and snorkeling, these Red Sea resorts offer the ideal environment for unwinding. A lively holiday ambiance is created by the several resorts that hold festive Christmas meals and events.

 

Ma'amul, a traditional food for Christmas festivities in Egypt. Photo credit: essanews

Alexandria: A coastal city that offers seafood specialties ideal for the chilly winter months, as well as historical sites like the Bibliotheca Alexandrina and Montazah Palace Gardens.

 

Siwa Oasis is a peaceful desert getaway with natural hot springs, distinctive scenery, and fantastic stargazing options that offer a calm substitute for the busier tourist destinations.

 

Why should Switzerland be your next travel destination?

 

Bern, Switzerland

Switzerland is a popular travel destination throughout the year. From June to September, you can hike in the mountains and explore the large cities, and from November to March, you can go skiing and visit little mountain communities. In addition to having stunning natural surroundings, this nation is among the wealthiest and most stable in the world, with a robust agricultural sector and advanced technology.

 

There are a number of sizable cities with distinct personalities, architecture, galleries, and museums that offer a vibrant cultural experience. One of the best examples of a nation that is not dependent on mineral resources yet is in the top 10 globally for sustainability and competitiveness is Switzerland.

 

Considering that up to 50% of all cargo traveling from northern Western Europe to the south travels via the EU, the organization plays a significant economic role. Switzerland's renowned financial image is not coincidental; its steady economy and commitment to legal standards draw many international banks.

 

The nation is a major political center that hosts important political events, banking conferences, finance conferences, cultural events, and design conferences. It is also a global center for the production of watches, cheese, and chocolate.

 

The country has a continental climate, with variations based on the topography. The Atlantic Ocean influences the western cantons, while the southeast experiences a more marked seasonal change. In the high-mountain valleys of the canton of Jura, low temperatures as low as -30°C replace Geneva's moderately chilly winters on the plain, which average +2–3°C.

 

People who want to experience the spirit of Christmas in Switzerland, including seasonal bazaars, Shrovetide carnivals, and sipping mulled wine by the fireplace in a mountain hut, travel here in the winter. The January deals attract shoppers. Although spring in the Alps arrives early and is breathtaking, the weather is erratic and better suited for touring in Geneva and Zurich, where spring temperatures are higher.

 

In April, the average temperature is +13°C, and rain is common. Public celebrations, the Zurich Guild Parade, and Catholic Easter all take place in the spring. The swimming season actually begins in June, with temperatures reaching +19–24°C in the north and +28–30°C in the south. Summer actually arrives here in May. While Lake Geneva stays, well, invigorating throughout the warm season, Lake Lugano and Lake Maggiore offer comfortable swimming temperatures.

 

Like the Berlin Love Parade, the Street Parade is the primary summer techno event in Switzerland. Switzerland is warm and dry in the fall, but there is rain in the central cantons, an overcast and windy October, and frost in the alpine areas. Temperatures decrease, snow falls in the mountains, and ski resorts open by the end of November.

 

Attractions in Switzerland

 

Switzerland is stunning in all its forms, including its lively cities, small towns, mountain lakes, ski areas, medieval castles, churches, bridges, and museums. With its colorful Jesuit Church, the Kapellbrücke Gallery, the Gütz Castle Hotel, and the Transport Museum featuring vintage electric cars, locomotives, and funiculars, Lucerne is one of the wealthiest cities in the nation.

 

History lovers are drawn to Zurich by the Grossmünster Cathedral, Fraumünster Abbey, St. Peter's Church, FIFA Museum, and Swiss National Museum. The city of Bern is old and conservative. With its ghoulish bas-reliefs, stained glass windows, the City Hall Tower performance, the city fountains, bridges, and museums, the Bern Cathedral is worth seeing.

 

Switzerland is well-known for its beautiful lakes and mountains, and Interlaken is a well-liked location for adventure sports and beautiful vistas. Other frequently searched subjects about Switzerland include tourist locations, cultural features, and useful information.

 

A mixture of historical, cultural, and economic circumstances has made the country famous for its chocolate and wristwatches. Swiss chocolate makers use premium milk and cocoa beans, which results in a rich flavor thanks to their creative techniques, thanks to Rodolphe Lindt's invention of conching in the 19th century, which enhanced its flavor and texture, giving it the highest global attention.

The precision engineering wristwatch market showcases Swiss watchmakers' skill and accuracy, frequently utilizing complex mechanical mechanisms. The history of watchmaking begins in the 16th century, when places like Geneva and Biel developed into premier hubs.

 

Tantalizing Swiss foods

 

Swiss cuisine, which is renowned for its rich flavors and premium ingredients, offers a wide range of visually appealing and delectable dishes. Rösti is typically served with Zurich-style veal, a mushroom-based dish. This dish, which is common in Zurich, is calorie-dense and ideal for chilly weather.

A traditional Swiss meal

 

Other amazing foods on the Swiss menu are Macaroni du Chalet, Swiss Fondue, Casimir rice, Raclette, Papet Vaudois, Älplermagronen, and Berner Platte. 

WAS JESUS CHRIST REALLY BORN ON CHRISTMAS DAY - DECEMBER 25?

 

Bethlehem, the birthplace of Jesus 

There are more questions about the scriptures in the Holy Bible than answers. Many times, people ask who had a camera to snap Jesus for us to see him today in thousands of Christian religious magazines as a white man with a beard and long hair. And another intriguing question is, “Was Jesus Christ, the Savior, actually born on Christmas Day, which is December 25?

Christmas Day, which falls on December 25 in every calendar year, is an important occasion observed worldwide. This may be due to the fact that on December 25, the entire Catholic and most of the Protestant celebrate the Nativity of Christ, while on January 7, the Orthodox and a small part of the Protestant celebrate the Nativity of Christ. But the important question is, why this division?

An excerpt from the Catholic Encyclopedia reveals that "Christmas was not among the feasts of the early church. Actually, the word 'Christmas' comes from the word 'Christ-Mass,' that is to say, 'Mass to Christ.' Therefore, it is very likely that because of Christ's mass dedication by the Catholic Church, it eventually became a holiday, observed today as Christmas.

However, until the third century AD, no Christian church celebrated this event, and in the Bible, religious historians did not find anywhere that Christ was born on December 25 or that people observed the birth of Christ. Another important question comes: "So why did the Catholics choose December 25 as the birthday of Jesus Christ? 

What has been recorded in the bible long before the birth of Christ are some prophecies, for example:“

And I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your offspring and hers; he will crush your head, and you will strike his heel.” In Genesis 3:15

 “I will bless those who bless you, and whoever curses you I will curse, and all peoples on earth will be blessed through you.” In Genesis 12:3

 “Therefore, the Lord himself will give you a sign: The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son and will call him Immanuel.” In Isaiah 7:14

“But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel, whose origins are from of old, from ancient times.” And this is found in Micah 5:2 

Yet, nothing is mentioned in them that Christ was to be born on Christmas Day or December 25. However, in those days Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world, forcing everyone to their own town to register. 

 

Joseph, therefore, went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, then to Bethlehem, the town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of David. He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child.

While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger because there was no guest room available for them, and there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. 

An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified, but the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David, a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.”

According to the story, the shepherds were tending their sheep in the fields near Bethlehem when an angel came to them. It wasn't mentioned that the shepherds were tending their sheep in the fields in winter. Winter starts in December and lasts through February, and these months are very cold.

So, from this short article, which was written from the religious research I did, everyone can convincingly agree that our savior Jesus Christ wasn't born on Christmas Day or December 25. 

Related article: DID JESUS TRULY DIE ON THE CROSS?

The truth is, Jesus didn't die on the cross

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This is one of the major reasons the Jehovah's Witnesses don’t observe December 25 or Christmas Day because the date of this winter season, or Christmas, originates at a time when the cult of the sun was powerful in Rome, which was associated with pagan celebration.

My conclusion is that it is not the celebration of Christmas or no celebration at all that makes one a good Christian. A true Christian does the will of God, is one who follows the principles of Christ Jesus, or is one who loves and cares about others without doing what he would never do to himself to other people.

And finally, we shouldn't forget that the Master himself warned, saying, " 

"Not everyone who calls me 'Lord, Lord' will enter the Kingdom of Heaven, but only those who do what my Father in Heaven wants them to do. Holman Christian Standard Bible "Not everyone who says to Me, Lord, Lord!' will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of My Father in heaven.

Related article you may like to read:  CHRISTMAS CELEBRATION IN ETHIOPIA

Men's activities during the Christmas celebration in Ethiopia

My Blood Runs Cold When I See This Laughing Image In Time Of COVID 19 Genocide

Bill Gates, Fauci, etc.—the most embarrassing and shameful image I have ever seen in a time of global destruction by COVID-19.

Unseen forces and authorities are fighting hard against me. They are like anti-Christ forces risen against Jesus because they can't stand the truth he was preaching. But frankly speaking, any time I see this laughing image of Bill Gates, Dr. Anthony Fauci, and his associate, in a time that COVID-19 has killed thousands of innocent people around the globe, my blood runs cold. 

As an African writer, the evil things I see in our society are not what European and American journalists see. The disturbing issues, deceptions, and lies about diseases and vaccines, which are matters of importance to me, are not necessary for European and American journalists, yet unseen forces are controlling and censoring what I write because they hate exposure of white-collar crimes.

 

Writers and journalists who for decades have specialized in writing fake articles about man-made diseases, presenting false medical research, and disseminating false medical information to the general public have not only destroyed humanity but also the entire world. 

Their unforgiving actions will take their toll on them at a time when many are young or in their old age. The ball they threw against the wall will surely bounce back on them.

And for those who are fighting hard to suppress the truth, this is the message from God to all of you at this COVID-19 Christmas. "There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way of death." - Proverbs 14:12.

It's very disturbing to see Bill Gates, Dr. Anthony Fauci, and his associates hysterically laughing behind a discussion table at a time when the coronavirus has decimated the world, killing thousands of innocent people in the United States of America.

People are mourning the loss of their precious ones to COVID-19, and people live in despair and anxiety because they have lost all their businesses and livelihoods to the ravaging coronavirus. Therefore, this is a time people need encouragement, assurance, and care from governments, but not such an eyesore of a disturbing image.

European and American journalists will not write about this disturbing image, as they have failed in the past to write about Bill Gates's diabolical agenda in the third world countries, yet when I write, my articles are constantly being suppressed because they want me to write their lies and deceptive articles like a European and American journalist.

That can't be possible; they need to understand because I am from a continent whose people have become a target of mass destruction. I am from a continent that has suffered all kinds of horrible crimes and atrocities with impunity at the hands of colonial masters and the US government.

Entire Europe, almost every part of the world, including the United States of America, is fighting against terrorism. I am also fighting against white-collar and clandestine crimes by Western European and US governments on the continent of Africa. Since your evil actions are creating hardships, political unrest, and destabilizing the economy of Africa.

In fact, I need help from governments around the globe to assist me in fighting against white-collar crimes affecting the continent of Africa and creating a refugee crisis, but if no one is willing to give me that help, then stop harassing me, stop declaring war on articles, and finally, stop suppressing information on our blogs. 

CHRISTMAS CELEBRATION IN ETHIOPIA

Men's activities during the Christmas celebration in Ethiopia

The 

Christmas celebration is based on the country, culture, and tradition. Ethiopia is one of the few countries where Christmas is celebrated in accordance with the traditions of the first Christians. Orthodox Christians celebrate the feast of the Nativity of Christ.

Every year, thousands of tourists come to see how Orthodox residents conduct holiday ceremonies in churches carved out of volcanic rock and in modern temples. 

Many Ethiopians are Christians, and in the Ethiopian calendar, the most important dates are, of course, the New Year, celebrated on September 11, Christmas on January 7, baptism on January 19, while the Feast of the Cross or Meskel takes place on September 27.

During the New Year holidays, Christmas is usually celebrated in northern Ethiopia, in Lalibela, a small town with a population of 30,000 people, where pilgrims and tourists from all over the world flocked.

A very beautiful service in the church begins on the evening of January 6 and ends at dawn on January 7. If one considers himself a believer, one can join the local people, who dress in white clothes, walk around the church three times, with candles in their hands, and then go to the priests for Holy Communion and blessing.

For Christmas, a traditional game resembling field hockey is held in Aksum, while a special coffee ceremony is held. Songs throughout the whole day, and residents dance on the streets from dawn to dusk. 

The people of Ethiopia have a special reverence for the temple. People begin to be baptized a few hundred meters before the temple, some crawling on their knees. “Ganna,” Ethiopian Christmas, begins with the fact that everyone who comes into the church is given candles.

With a lit candle, a person bypasses the church three times and only then stands for the liturgy. On the eve of the holiday, it begins in the evening and often lasts all night. Women and men in the temple pray separately. The women are usually on the right side and the men on the left.

Female activities during the Christmas celebration in Ethiopia

In the morning, all the believers form a bright and elegant procession that goes to a nearby hill. The Divine Liturgy is served there, and then everyone eats one piece of the doro-wot from the hands of another believer.

Ethiopians bake injera, a huge cake made from yeast dough. It serves both as a plate and a napkin to take a piece of chicken. Also, in many homes during Christmas, chicken in peanuts is served as a snack or hot dish. But Dors-Uot, a piece of stewed chicken with spices, is served at a brotherly meal.

Christmas celebration in Ethiopia, indeed, puts one into the early Christian antiquity, revealing the Jewish tradition connection, which is very strong in Ethiopia.

Good Friends: Wishing You Merry Christmas And Happy New Year

Friends and followers on WordPress

Wishing everyone a Happy Christmas and New Year (2016): Due to a lack of space, many faces couldn’t appear, but you are always in my mind and heart.

Christmas is a time of the year when everyone needs to be happy. It is a joyful season to forgive, to forget all the bitter experiences, and to prepare for the new year with hopes, dreams, and aspirations.  

Apart from my family, some people remain special to me. They are my friends or followers on Twitter, Pinterest, LinkedIn, Stumble Upon, Google Plus, Facebook, WordPress, etc.

We have never met before, yet your articles and comments keep us together as a family. The reason I find it hard to forget all of you. Let the rise of the December sun, my special poem dedicated to you, bring good tidings to you and your family. Wishing you a Merry 

Christmas and Happy New Year in advance.

In the Rise Of The December Sun

I had an extraordinary revelation

Your joyous holidays will continue till the new year

Your life is turning into a sumptuous and joyful one.

Have faith that  you will see the light at the end of the dark tunnel, no matter how heavy your problem is

Problems are part of the aspects of human life

We must use its lessons to educate and to make peace

Relationships teach you lifetime lessons, things you must build upon to have a solid emotional foundation. 

Your job is to accept the lesson, love the person, and put what you have learned to use in all other relationships and areas of your life. 

It is said that love is blind, but friendship is clairvoyant!  Thank you for being a part of My Life, whether you were a reason, a season, or a lifetime!

Thank you for liking me for who I am

I still believe together we can make this world a better place

Wishing all of you the best Christmas ever and a prosperous year. 

Enjoy your Christmas and New Year's Eve without any tragedy

Christmas celebration


Christmas is a joyful season and an occasion to visit relatives and friends and exchange gifts. Unfortunately, within a relatively short period between the holidays and New Year's Eve, unexpected tragedies bring sadness to our homes instead of happiness.


One important aspect of human life that everyone has to know to be alert is that while one is planning a good holiday, an unseen calamity that can be prevented awaits you at the corner. Rapists, stalkers, and murderers like the Christmas season. 

Like a cobra, waiting to strike its victim, rapists follow drunk girls as prey. Criminals break into homes to steal, believing the occupants are drunk and heavily asleep.

Apart from these tragedies that could easily occur at home, some of the hazards or calamities are often man-made errors. 

A flickering candle easily catches fire when in contact with curtains, carpet, and other quick-burning objects. A Christmas tree meant for decoration can easily ignite because of the overload of electrical outlets.

All these tragedies can easily be prevented. Ladies going out for fun and coming home late must be in a group. Women in particular must be careful of the men they associate with and watch over what they drink. 

Men with bad intentions toward a woman usually get them by drinking. A substance in a drink to drug a woman can never be detected. The aftermath of some of these drugs is fatal.

When drunk, please don't lose your mind, either at home or outside. Christmas is a season of merriness and not tears. Wishing everyone a happy season and a prosperous new year, with carefulness, safety, and rapt attention.

GIVE THE CHILDREN LOVE, CARE AND HAPPINESS THIS CHRISTMAS

Lovely children


It`s great to be young. As a child growing up in Africa, I could remember how happy I used to be when my father shared a bottle of Fanta or Coca-Cola with his children. 


Even though we were four in number, we were happy and proud of our father for providing us with a bottle of Fanta.

We didn`t derive our happiness from the Fanta given to us, but the love our father had for us to buy that bottle of Fanta was what made us happy. 

There is nothing a child likes more than love, care, happiness, toys, and a healthy environment, yet many children in both Third World Countries and other Advanced Countries have yet to experience what happiness is about.

Many children sometimes find themselves facing severe, diverse problems more than the adults who brought them into the world.  Children are violently separated from their parents, ending up in foster homes, the orphanage, and other health institutions.

In the United States, the National Runaway Switchboard estimates that about 1.3 million runaway and homeless children are living on the streets, and in Britain, the Children's Society is responsible for such issues, while in Belgium, the Child Focus is also actively dealing with truancy and other problems affecting children.

Many children are suffering worldwide, without any parents to cater to their welfare, yet many people are looking for a child without success. It`s the responsibility of parents to make a child happy. Children are national assets for development. 

They are the leaders of tomorrow; therefore, they must be well-treated.