In the heart of Nigeria, where the harmattan breezes kiss the air and jollof rice is a non-negotiable part of any celebration in December, there's an unspoken challenge to protect the essence of Christmas from the winds of change. So here's the question I ask myself: how do we preserve the soul of Christmas when the nation's gloomy societal issues and devastating economic status overshadow the glitz of the festive season?

We first need to agree that we must first understand what we are trying to protect and that Christmas is not just a day. It is a celebration of family, community, and spirituality, and traditions are at the core of this holiday. Whether it's lighting Christmas lights, buying new clothes, or traveling to one's hometown. These traditions are the heartbeat of Christmas in this country. So, if these traditions are not feasible, then Christmas for most people wouldn't be 'christmassing.' Mainly because the grinch of the narrative of Christmas has been threaded in commercialization, which often threatens to steal the spotlight.

However, this commercialization is portrayed in holiday sales, glittering ads, and PR for enormous spending to experience a lavish and enjoyable one-month lifestyle, popularly described as 'Detty December.' We can save Christmas by prioritizing its meaning over materialism. Consider this: instead of the extravagant gifts and lifestyle this season, focus on the experience. The joy of shared moments surpasses the temporary thrill of unwrapping a shiny package. I know about the relentless pace of modern life, its daily responsibilities, and the struggle to survive makes it easy to lose sight of the season's survival. But perhaps, in this very hardship lies the opportunity to save Christmas.

If we intentionally slow down and savor the simple pleasures, be it watching Christmas movies as a family, attending carols, telling stories with friends, baking together with siblings etc. Or by simply carrying out acts of kindness so we don't forget the deeper meaning that underpins the festivities of Christmas. By doing these, we can recover the enhancement that often eludes us as these traditions build bonds that withstand the test of time. Acts of kindness, big or small, become the catalyst that rekindles the warmth of Christmas. From donating to local charities or volunteering to a humanitarian service, these actions embody the true spirit of the season and dispel the darkness that threatens to shroud the season.

In conclusion, saving Christmas is not a solo mission; it's a collective effort that requires the participation of individuals, families, and communities. So, as we navigate the challenges of commercialization, modern life hassles, and societal issues, let's remember the traditions that inspire us and the season's true meaning. Through acts of kindness, intentional family moments, and a commitment to sustainability, we can ensure that the essence of Christmas endures. And if all is said and done, and for some reason, the magic of Christmas isn't saved, I'm glad I got to experience Christmas for what it was during my childhood.