SOME THINGS TO REMEMBER THIS CHRISTMAS

Tomorrow is Christmas day; a day many perceive as the happiest day of the year. A celebration of Christ for those who believe, and a general celebration of life and love for billions of people around the world.

It’s a special time of year for so many, where they are able to show gratitude and appreciation to the people closest to them.

As much as this is important, it’s also just as important to remember at Christmas that there are billions of people who won’t be receiving a Christmas turkey, a stocking full of presents or even a cosy bed to sleep in on Christmas Eve – or any time of their life for that matter.

We can never forget that more than half of the global population are living on less than $2.50 a day. They are unable to give gifts to their beloved families, to feed themselves or their children, or to live in a house where they can rest their head.

There are people who have lost loved ones, who have lost homes and who have lost absolutely everything near and dear to them at a time where others are celebrating. There are people who are fleeing from war and devastation, who are neglected by the wealthy and who suffer from the severe devastation of poverty.

It’s important to be grateful for all that you’re given on a day where millions will be receiving only heartache, to not be despiteful for the things you didn’t receive on Christmas day, and to recognise that there really are far too many who won’t be greeted with a gift, let alone a glass of fresh water to drink.

I encourage you to think of those on Christmas day, who are without a loved one to buy for them, or who are without enough money to buy a simple mince pie. To think of the people who may not celebrate Christmas, and to recognise that not everyone has the same beliefs as you.

Remember just how lucky you are to be in a place that allows you to celebrate without any destruction, with a fresh meal and a roof over your head. Remember that there are so many who would love to have even a slither of what you have.

Christmas day should be more than just a day of giving and religious beliefs; it should be a day full of appreciation and gratefulness for the beautiful life you’ve been granted, to recognise your struggles and to be empowered by those around you, and those that you’ve lost.

Be mindful of those around the world who are grieving the loss of loved ones due to circumstances out of their control. It may not be a joyous time for them.

I will be thinking of all the people who aren’t having a day of celebration and happiness on Christmas. No matter if this day is the most magical for you and your family, try to recognise those whose lives may be literally falling apart.

I really do hope that tomorrow is a day full of love for everyone around the world – no matter their faith. That the world will have peace for at least one day, that families will unite and that those who are celebrating will wholeheartedly appreciate a day of love. Because there are so many around you, around your country and around the world, who are suffering.

If you receive a gift on Christmas day, remember that that is a gift that could change someone’s life. When you unwrap your present, think of the people who would be forever grateful for something so small. Try to be that grateful.

Christmas day can be interpreted however you please, depending on your beliefs or personal life and upbringing. To me, it is a day of respect, unity and thankfulness. So, to everyone around the world, regardless of your beliefs, I really do hope you have a beautiful day of love and mindfulness, but most importantly, gratitude.

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!