Kelly

There is something that usually hits me about this time of year: the good old Christmas spirit.

Sure, I've felt the Christmas breeze (or that could have been wind associated with yet another trough in the central Caribbean). And, of course, living in Temple Hall, which, for those who know where that is, can be mighty nippy, the Christmas zephyrs have started to chill my bones.

But also, there is usually a feeling inside that makes me know it's Christmas. There's normally a day, any given day, when I just stop what I'm doing, take a deep breath and somehow that 'smell' of the season would fill my lungs and I would know that I was into that Christmas state of mind. Alas! Every time I take a deep breath I just feel like there's a clog in my chest. Hope it's not pneumonia!

No feeling as yet

This year, the Christmas spirit hasn't hit me yet. Not that there isn't much to be thankful for. I am still alive and not being investigated by any authorities (to my knowledge anyway). I think the Christmas spending has hit me more already. It just seems like there is a lot of stuff to buy and very little dough to do it with. Of course, the gift ideas issue is no help to those, like me, who aren't crazy about shopping.

But I digress. There is a part of me that looks around Jamaica land we (allegedly) love and sighs. The spate of incidents involving children, the high price for basic food stuff, the continued bickering between the leaders and the unabated crime don't particularly make for a festive season. Of course, the financial analysts will be telling us soon how much money is in circulation and myself, like many others, will be wondering where all that money is going because we sure haven't seen any of it.

Charity

But there is still reason to be joyful. There is some level of charity going around from the corporate entities, the local government elections will be out of the way by early next month, and there are bound to be parties galore as people look to unwind after what has been a hectic kind of year. Plus, there is always the fact that schools are out so the children will be free to sleep late and enjoy home or travel. Sheer bliss!

But, I'm still sitting at my desk, slightly disturbed that even though the sorrel and Christmas cake are being served and the carols are well and truly on the radio, I ain't feeling Christmassy yet. (Sigh)

Give me some Christmas cheer at daviot.kelly@gleanerjm.com