The values of Christmas are universal

While it is the biggest religious festival for Christians all over the world, marking the birth of Jesus Christ and honouring his teachings, the traditional festivities are enjoyed by people from all faiths and creeds. In Bangladesh, the roots of Christianity date back to the 16th century, and there is a small but strong Christian community with its members celebrating Christmas incorporating their cultural roots. This year, Christmas, like all other festivals, religious or secular, will be muted as the world grapples with the Covid-19 pandemic that continues to take lives and cause immense suffering. Thus there are restrictions all over the world on people gathering and celebrating this joyful time with children enjoying the fun of getting gifts from Santa Claus and joining in the cheer that this festival usually brings.

While there may not be the usual festivities of Christmas, it would be befitting to remember the spirit of the day and the teachings of Jesus which contain messages that are universal. Compassion for those who are sick or in distress, regardless of their backgrounds, kindness to each other, forgiveness, renunciation of greed, humility in every aspect of life and spreading peace amongst ourselves—these values have become essential if we are to heal the wounds that the pandemic has left on us. As winter continues and Covid-19 infections keep spiking, and although doctors and other health workers are now more confident about treating Covid-19 patients and many more have survived the disease than before, the number of deaths is still very high. Thousands of families have been left devastated by the deaths of family members, communities have suffered as they lost mentors and visionaries, and millions live in hunger and extreme anxiety as jobs have been lost and there is no food in the house.

Let us all embody the spirit of Christmas and be united in our efforts to combat the pandemic by showing the best part of our humanity, extending a hand to those who need it. There are many such people all around us. Whether it is through sharing our food or wealth, caring for the sick or even a few kind words to soothe someone's anguish, let us show empathy and acceptance, love and support for our fellow human beings, no matter how different they are from us. The pandemic has shown us how important it is for us to be better human beings if we are to save humankind. Let Christmas reinforce this commitment. We wish all our Christian sisters and brothers a safe, joyous and peaceful Christmas.