IT’S CHRISTMAS ONCE AGAIN!

The relevance, importance and significance of Christmas to humanity can't be overemphasized for it's the celebration of the birth of redemption and the gift of eternity given to us on a platter of gold. Yeah that reminds me of Bob Marley's Redemption Song, may God rest his legendary soul! As we celebrate Christmas please let's give limbs to love. Love-in-motion! Smile at your domestic staff and say, “Merry Christmas and thank you for your wonderful services this year!” Gift them something beautiful which they will cherish a long time to come.

Mr. Desmond based in California – please tell Osmond, the dutiful attendant in your coffee shop to keep your balance but hope it's not a token change? With a big smile on your face voice, “Merry Christmas, friend and thanks for being there all through the year!”

Chief. Olowolagba, the renowned cocoa farmer in Oyo State, Nigeria – don't forget to send a bag of rice and two live chickens to your maid's family in Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State.

Kofi, the gold magnate in Accra, Ghana – your personal driver of twenty years wants a raise in his salary; please surprise him this season with bogus salary and Christmas bonus!

Mrs. Chioma in Onitsha – don't forget your frozen fish vendor in your local market. A white chicken will make you see her brown 'teething,' which she hides because she dislikes but she can't help but smile at you for your kind gesture. Tell her, “She's unique and beautiful!”

Isiaka the carpenter, Baba the barber, Akala selling akara … all want to feel important this season, show them they're by remembering to gift them. Usman in Jigawa is literally a big man but ashamed of being called a man because he can't afford to surprise his wife, Asabe with One Thousand Naira recharge card so she could call her family and friends in Taraba on New Year's Day.

The rich shouldn't just celebrate with the rich even if birds of a feather flock together remember the downtrodden in your society. A leading Telecoms … in Nigeria did an ad campaign which says, “Caring is good but sharing is better!” Yeah, you can't say you care about someone without sharing with same. Show your spouse, children, family, friends, neighbours … that you care with special gifts and love. Make their Christmas merry not just with words but deeds as well!

This is my token gift to you all:
“Thanks for being there this year. I wish you the very best this season and always. Merry, merry Christmas!”

Olayemi J Ogunojo is the digital-age relationship cum life coach, public/motivational speaker and journalist.

Email: [email protected]