Christmas Giving

Although our tradition of food, the preparation and family gatherings are similar versions of those celebrated around the world at Christmastime, do not be surprised by the absence of Santa Claus or “Father Christmas,” as he is sometimes called. What little presence you may come across is linked to modern consumerism. Nothing against Santa, really — not only is he not Christ, but it’s also really hard to sell the story of a fat man in a sweater-suit set coming down the chimney to islanders who never see chimneys. As a matter of fact, in Jamaica the word “chimney,” is referring to a bedpan. There was a time when there appeared to be community effort in incorporating the fairytale figure of Santa Claus into our traditions. I remember the Christmas of 1989 in infant school (kindergarten equivalent), “Santa” came for a visit at our school and I never saw him again. The racket was our parents purchased the gifts and “Santa” would hand them out during our annual class party. There was bound to be trouble as every family is different, but we were all children. Too much was on the line to rest it all on that mythical character. Nonetheless, Christmases still remain magical.  

Christmas in Jamaica is at first a feeling; the cool breeze in the air. A much welcome break from the usual scorching hot sun. Music is blasting almost everywhere you go and what might have, at other times, been a nuisance, is now embraced and much adored. Gift giving is limited to parents, children, romantic partners, employees and leaders of the community, including teachers. Of course one can give personal gifts to whomever one desires, but while it will not be rejected, it’s also not expected. The preferred gift of choice at any age is cash. Yeah, it’s not a “gift” as the season intends, but let me explain. The season brings much festivities and celebrations outside of the home — beach outings, sessions, Grand Market, dining out — requiring monetary currency to partake in and enjoy. And like it or not, with Jamaica being a developing country, there will always be the need to get by. Also, there are not many options to freely return and/or exchange unwanted gifts at stores. Besides, whatever the desired gift, it was already on the wishlist and would most likely be received in the family’s barrel from overseas. However, if you must give a personal gift, do not be alarmed if it is not opened in front of you and/or worn/displayed/used in your presence. It’s not an insult or lack of gratitude, but merely a level of intimacy and affection that is not shown amongst us unless we’ve been otherwise formally introduced to that practice. What can I say, we learned our manners from the English. If it is something or someone who might mean something to you, you’re better off taking them out for an outing or giving cash. 

Without thinking too hard, I would say the top gift for women are fragrances or fragrance sets. For men, the same. Then, a hair and/or nail salon visit for women and a new shirt for men. These are not to replace cash, but in addition to it. And for kids, cash (to buy the desired toys, and firecrackers for New Year’s celebrations). Maybe if Santa delivered cash we’d accept him with open arms, but until then, he’s just a man in a red sweater-suit set. And it doesn’t matter if he is Black or White. 

Merry Christmas.