Ho, ho, ho for the Christmas season. Thanksgiving is over for 2025, and December has arrived. For many, this is a time to slow down, reflect, and find moments of calm amid a month often filled with expectation. Popular images of this season centre on travel, shared meals, family gatherings, and time spent together. As of now, there has been no snow and the weather has been relatively mild, but that does not stop people from dreaming of a white Christmas.
For others, however, December brings little joy. Before, during, and after the Christmas season, there is a segment of the population that is often overlooked. These are individuals living in poverty, those who are destitute, and many who are experiencing mental health issues. This includes people who are homeless. Many are malnourished, underweight, and wearing worn or inadequate clothing. Walking through towns and cities, some are searching not only for food, but for stable housing and basic necessities such as clean clothes. Some find temporary shelter. Others are drawn into the mental health system or the criminal justice system. Many do not even realise it is the Christmas season. For them, the familiar cheer holds little meaning.
Within the Jewish faith, December can be a period of continued observance rather than rest. Each year, Jewish communities around the world mark Chanukah. This year, it begins on Sunday evening 14 December and continues through the night of 21 December. Often referred to as the Festival of Lights, Chanukah commemorates the victory of the Maccabees and the rededication of the Holy Temple in Jerusalem. According to tradition, a small vial of oil that was expected to last one night continued to burn for eight nights, symbolising resilience and faith.
During Chanukah, families often play with a four sided top known as a dreidel. Each side bears a Hebrew letter that together translates to “a great miracle happened there”. Children may receive Chanukah gelt, usually chocolate coins, and small gifts throughout the eight nights. These gifts are often modest, such as everyday items, with imagination playing a key role. As children grow older, the gifts may become larger. Adults also exchange presents, including clothing, personal items, and household goods.
On 25 December, Christians around the world observe Christmas, marking the birth of Jesus Christ. Many Christians believe he came into the world in human form to bring redemption and moral guidance. While there are differing views on the exact date of his birth, December 25 has become the widely recognised day of celebration. For many families, Christmas now includes shared meals, carols, gift giving, and longstanding traditions such as decorating a tree together and preparing special foods throughout the season.
The following day, 26 December, marks the beginning of Kwanzaa. This seven day celebration honours African heritage within African American communities. Each day focuses on a core principle that reflects values believed to support strong families and communities. A candle holder known as a kinara is lit throughout the week in remembrance of ancestors. The final day typically brings extended family together for a shared meal and the exchange of gifts.
In countries such as Nigeria, both Christmas and Kwanzaa are observed. Nigeria has a diverse religious population, with Christians and Muslims making up the majority. Christmas is widely celebrated as a family centred occasion, culminating on 25 December with food, music, and social gatherings. Kwanzaa is observed from 26 December to 1 January. The term Kwanzaa originates from the Swahili phrase “matunda ya kwanza”, meaning first fruits. While Swahili is not native to Nigeria, the principles of Kwanzaa resonate across African cultures. Nigerian children are often taken to see Father Christmas, commonly referred to elsewhere as Santa Claus, as part of the festive experience.
Across these traditions, light remains a powerful symbol. Light represents hope, guidance, and renewal. In Jewish tradition, the menorah symbolises perseverance and faith. In Christian practice, lights often represent the birth and teachings of Jesus Christ. In Kwanzaa, the lighting of the kinara reflects unity, purpose, and collective responsibility.
Yet not everyone experiences December through celebration. People living with terminal illness or long term mental health conditions often remain disconnected from seasonal traditions. Many have limited or no contact with family and rely on others facing similar circumstances for social connection. Some spend their lives in institutional settings, with few visitors and little opportunity for meaningful engagement. For them, birthdays, holidays, and celebrations may pass unnoticed.
There is also a group that remains insufficiently acknowledged. People who are homeless. Across communities worldwide, there is a shared responsibility to ensure that everyone has access to shelter, clothing, and food, not only during the Christmas season, but throughout the year. These are real people whose needs extend beyond temporary gestures.
This season invites reflection on cultural diversity, shared humanity, and collective responsibility. Opening our homes and hearts begins with recognising the dignity of those experiencing poverty, homelessness, and mental health issues. Support, stability, and compassion are essential for survival and recovery.
Whether one celebrates December or not, it remains a moment to pause and consider others. For those struggling, there is hope that the year ahead will bring greater care, understanding, and peace. The wish for harmony remains universal. Ho, ho, ho, but not for some.
Howard Diamond is currently not employed due to nerve damage affecting both legs from the waist down, which makes walking difficult. He also experiences visual problems that cause severe headaches.
