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society. Britain used to be mainly Christian, but now there are a variety of faiths and you hear about councils that don’t want to offend anyone, so they avoid having any religious references in the town’s Christmas decorations. I’ve also read stories about some primary schools not doing nativity plays anymore and that’s so tragic. I think that’s why Christmas has lost its true meaning to a lot of children now – they’re not getting a good understanding of why we celebrate it.” Rosemary: “The daft thing is, people of other faiths often don’t mind at all that we put Christmas decorations up. In fact, some really like it – it’s just the councils worrying and not applying any common sense, which unfortunately spoils it for everyone.” What could be done to encourage Christmas goodwill? Rosemary: “No matter how much people moan about seeing Christmas gifts and decorations in the shops in September, it’s not going to change
children know that Christmas is a celebration of Jesus’ birth**
than three quarters of
Less
because companies make so much money from it now. So it’s up to us to try and overlook that and think about the true meaning of Christmas too. Christmas spirit is still evident in small communities but more could be done to bring people together in big cities, perhaps by organising charity events or encouraging people to
volunteer.” Bev: “Where I live my neighbours are elderly, so
I sometimes pop round over the Christmas period to make sure they’re OK. Goodwill doesn’t have to be about giving money. I think a lot of people do still make kind gestures like that over Christmas, but because people lead such busy lives now it’s becoming more rare. I think if the press gave more coverage to charitable stories rather than just writing about what the must-have toy or gadget is, it might remind people what Christmas is really about and inspire acts of kindness. I also think we need to get the sentiment back into Christmas. For
example, many people send e-cards instead of proper ones, but you don’t appreciate them as much when they’re on a computer. I’ve got a friend who still makes her 14-year- old son write thank you cards, and good on her – that’s the way it should be. You should be thankful for gifts and not take them for granted.” Helen: “Yes, more parents should encourage their children to appreciate what they receive. I think your friend’s in a minority now. The older generations, like myself, still think like that and I work hard to try and encourage it within my family, but the younger ones just don’t seem to have that mindset.” Bev: “I think they do to a point, but it could be a lot better. People just need to shift their focus and consider the true meaning of Christmas, rather than what they get out of it.”
*MBNA **youngpoll.com As told to Amy Salter Photos Claire Wood Hair and make-up Tally Bookbinder assisted by Erika Swinn