Make this a special Christmas

It was only last week that it dawned on me that Christmas is here. Seems like not too long ago we were celebrating the New Year! Believe it or not, we are four days to Christmas Day and 10 days to the start of another year.

Some people become very sad at this time of the year as loved ones are not around. It may be your husband, wife or a special friend. For some persons, a parent or parents will be missed, and yet for others, children might not be here.

You may not have enough money to spend this Christmas and can't buy gifts, have the usual Christmas dinner or travel and visit friends as you used to in the past. I know some people are without jobs, without hope this holiday. But wherever you are, whatever your fortunes, let us make this a special Christmas.

1. Let us celebrate: Celebrate the fact that we have survived another year. The fact that you are alive is something to celebrate. Let's not take life and the simple things for granted.

2. Reach out to friends: This time of year presents a great opportunity for us to reach out. There are so many people who are eager to receive a call, a kind note, an email or a card. Remember those friends who may be alone or lonely. Touch base with those who have experienced personal losses this year.

3. Remember family: The holidays are always a special time to celebrate with family. Make an effort to include those family members who may be in pain or lonely. The greatest gift you can give is to remember your family and friends.

4. Lend a hand: If you are feeling lonely and sad, rise above yourself this holiday and give of yourself and time. There are many things we can do: visit a home for seniors or children, prepare a meal for someone, take out a child or donate to a homeless shelter.

5. Do something special: We all can do something special that will make a difference in the lives of others. One thing I try to do at Christmas is to pay off my debt. Let it not be that while you may be having your Christmas dinner, there is someone who is not able to do so because you have not paid a debt.

6. Pamper yourself: Take care of self and pamper yourself. Enjoy and make this a special Christmas.

Dr Wendel Abel is a consultant psychiatrist and head, Section of Psychiatry, Dept of Community Health and Psychiatry, University of the West Indies, 977-1108; email: yourhealth@gleanerjm.