Christmas in Glen Norah

The Herald, December 24, 1979

ALTHOUGH Christmas is not a traditional celebration for Africans, there are thousands in Rhodesia who tomorrow will celebrate the event — some of them humbly, others with a sumptuous feast.

For many country-folk and refugees from the terrorist war, they might only celebrate with a humble meal of bread and jam, while for others like the Gotora family of Glen Norah it will be a memorable event in the spirit of “eat, drink and be merry”.

However, not all spirits are imbibed from the bottle, and the festive season has prompted them to give the children a treat of “sweets and goodies”.

Mrs Gotora said she will put her cookery knowledge to good use over the roast chicken for young and old alike.

“Of course, the children will be dancing to the music and munching on the sweet things of life”.

Meanwhile, the goodwill and fellowship of friends and relatives is expected to win the day.

LESSONS FOR TODAY

Tomorrow is Christmas Day, a day on which not only Christians, but most people throughout the world, take time off to mark the birth of Jesus Christ, although it is not certain when the Lord was born.
As we celebrate Christmas, let’s remember that there are many individuals and families who will not know that it is Christmas. To them it will be just another day. This includes the less privileged. Months before the Christmas festivities, communities should come together and ensure that these people also have the joy of Christmas.
However, while we fully appreciate the jovial mood during this festive season, we feel obliged to warn Zimbabweans against spending most of their money on beer and other unnecessary luxuries due to gaiety. There is still 2022 to come.
The world is also reeling under the Omicron variant of the Covid-19 virus. Unlike in 2020 when Christmas was almost non-existent, it looks like in 2021, we might just hold the celebrations. But what will be the price we will pay as a nation if people fail to be vigilant? Will those parties and gatherings be worth it in the end?
We urge everyone to stay safe and protected, and follow all the World Health Organisation protocols.
For those travelling to different parts of the country, we hope they exercise great caution on the roads. They should drive to arrive alive,