JMorgan

Last updated 00:00, Thursday, 20 December 2007

I WOULD like to write a column about something which isn’t Christmassy, but at this late stage of the month it is hard to escape the festive cheer.

However, I also know there are many, many people out there who are feeling sad, lonely, desolate and for whom this next fortnight will be incredibly painful.

For every person who can’t wait to wallow in mushy sentimentality, knee deep in chocolate brazils and Wizard of Oz re-runs, there is someone missing a loved one so badly they can feel their heart break just a little more over the sounds of Silent Night.

I don’t set out to be a bah humbug. There is very little that gives as much pleasure as seeing your kids buzzing with excitement on Christmas Eve, celebrating with friends, sharing a glass of wine satisfyingly slumped in front of Agatha Christie re-runs.

But I know from my own experiences and listening to others that Christmas is incredibly difficult for anyone who mourns a loved one, is unhappy with their own lives or just can’t see any light at the end of life’s tunnel.

I remember the years when the message of Christmas was “I hope I get as many good presents as possible’’ followed by “How many nights can I go out drinking and not get sacked?’’ As long as you were receiving who cares about giving?

When I was a child, I would be appalled when my dad would only ever have five presents under the tree and one of them was a packet of socks. I couldn’t think of anything worse then a handful of presents.

I can only assume I’m getting wiser as I get older. I’d be delighted with five presents under the tree this year, just so long as I don’t have to wear damn silly hats and can hug those who mean everything to me.

I hope those who adore the festive season have a fabulous time, re-emerging half a stone heavier and bleary-eyed at the beginning of January.

And for those who truly don’t know how they will get through Christmas Day, I know who some of you are and I will be thinking of you.