A Sanitised Christmas?

It’s been a strange year and I’m afraid the ’strangeness’ is going to continue into Christmas 2020 and sadly beyond. 2020 has been largely ruined by the virus, which we know as Covid-19 and it looks like this isn’t going to change soon. Things have been very different in 2020.

Over the last few weeks, (in the UK), the preparations we have made for Christmas seem to have been continually changing as Government advice and Covid-19 statistics become available. It was hoped that the most recent lockdown in November would have brought the virus spread under some control, and rules or guidelines would be able to be relaxed with sensible precautions allowing something like a ‘normal’ Christmas. We knew that the Christmas which was expected would need to remain under ‘measures’ in order to protect each other. Families would be able to meet, in reduced numbers with the mantra of ‘Hands, Face, Space’ remaining in place. Measures that have given us a degree of protection - the washing of hands, mask-wearing and keeping a safe distance from others. However, even as I wrote this blog things changed, for many throughout the UK, with the acknowledgement of a new virus variant. Urgent action was required as it appears that the viruses ability to spread has increased. Suddenly, we had even more rules and guidelines to consider, with more restrictions being put in place. It was as I thought about the situation, that I realised it felt like we will be having what I’d like to suggest is ‘A Sanitised Christmas.’ By this, I’m meaning it's not just ‘Sanitised’ through all the cleaning and hygiene precautions we’ll be taking, but also ‘Sanitised’ in that sanitisation will make things more acceptable or less unpleasant (at least the consequences of it will hopefully be). It will be different in so many ways, but I believe this is necessary to keep each other safe.

So what will we notice that’s different about this ‘Sanitised Christmas?’

Well, the first changes that will be evident, will be:-

The Things Which Will Be Missing

For some people reduced income, through illness, redundancy, or concern about their businesses viability or future will mean that this Christmas will be very different. By necessity, economies will need to be made and because of the reduction in income, expenditure on the festivities will need to be reduced.

I also think that the usual excitement and build up to Christmas has been different this year. The streets are quieter than usual and shops and markets have had to close (or not open) as would usually happen. All this has meant a change in the general atmosphere of Christmas anticipation and excitement which would normally be around us.

The activities that take place and are part of the build-up to Christmas have also been different, changed or cancelled. The pantomime, school nativity play, carol singing, carol services, Christmas parties and meeting friends and families for meals out or socialising all have changed in 2020. Many of these things have become 'online', without face to face contact, meaning that they are not quite the same.

It’s also clear that Christmas Day 2020 itself is also going to be much different. We’re going to miss the traditional things we do. The worry and the fun that comes from preparing that enormous meal as family gather together, share in the communal meal, enjoy laughter and merriment at the table, reminisce, exchange gifts, play games together in the afternoon, take that food-induced slumber, laugh at the uncle who makes a fool of himself. All of the things which make Christmas so much fun. I could go on. But for sure, it will be different this year.

But what will take its place this ‘Sanitised Christmas?’

What Will Christmas Be Like In 2020?

Well, I think the first thing which we will have to do, (or will have already done) is to make the decision as to how or where we will celebrate Christmas this year. Is it a ’stay at home’ Christmas as would seem to be the wisest choice, or do we join in our limited numbers with others for the day itself? If so, how will we get there? and how long can we/should we stay?

The day itself, if we share it with others, will be very different. Even if our numbers are few, we are advised to maintain regular hand washing, keep a safe distance between us, have no physical contact, cleanse surfaces regularly, consider wearing a mask, have windows or outside doors open or meet in the garden under blankets and outdoor heaters. It doesn’t sound attractive or like it’ll be much fun if we abide by the advice or guidelines!

Then, if, we choose to meet and eat together other things will need to be taken into consideration. We are also advised that cutlery and plates should be wiped/sanitised and then only touched by the person eating from them, board games shouldn’t be played together, crackers should be pulled alone (you hold both ends yourself and pull), no singing together or raised voices and whatever we do we must be particularly aware of protecting the elderly and vulnerable.

Yes, I'm afraid this is going to be ‘A Sanitised Christmas’.

This isn't great news for any of us, but I think we need to be especially aware of those for whom it will be particularly hard. Not all of us have homes, family, friends or good health. Things will be particularly bad for those who are homeless, live alone, who need to shield, or are terminally ill. I know that to these people, it will be very hard. But, it is important to acknowledge and recognise this and say to them that 'you are not forgotten'. To tell them, that you will be in my thoughts and those of many others. Maybe, this will help you and bring you some comfort during these difficult times.

All of this may sound rather miserable, and let's face it, it won’t be great!

But, the good news is that in being prepared to change things this year, the situation will be better for many of us next year. By protecting ourselves and each other, our festivities should hopefully be back to something like normal in 2021. The reality is that we need to have a major change in our festivities in 2020, it needs to be 'A Sanitised Christmas' to ensure that next year we can share in it all together again.

As I said at the start of this blog, It’s been a very strange and in many ways horrible year, but despite all of this, can I wish you a Happy and Blessed Christmas 2020. Stay safe, stay sanitised and we’ll get through this together.

I thank you for accompanying me during 2020 and look forward to your continued company in 2021.

Stephen