19 Dec 2013

The world has become a global village such that the space between individuals, friends and families has shrank; modern communication tools have rendered such things as Christmas cards irrelevant, people now convey messages quicker and conveniently, thanks to social media and cellphones.

Christmas cards are part of the history of Christmas celebrations worldwide used to convey messages of well wishes to cement relationships with loved ones.

During this time of the year, Christmas cards business used to flourish, but nowadays the cards seem to be things of the past. To find out this BOPA took to the streets to find out if Christmas cards are still common or not. But a cross section of those interviewed had mixed feelings about the relevancy of the cards.

As for middle aged man Kutlo Moswetsi believes that it is good to exchange cards and presents during Christmas and that he still does it. “Cards are important because at times when people are apart one can use the card as a remembrance”, he said.

Mr Onalethata Bentu says Christmas cards are still relevant to be exchanged with loved ones as Christmas is a time to share happiness. “It is fun to buy them, not necessarily for family members but for anyone”, he said.

A young lady Kgotso Lekgoa says that exchanging Christmas presents and cards bring people together and is a way of appreciating other people, adding that they do exchange Christmas cards in her family every year.

However some people feel Christmas cards are a thing of the past and do not have value anymore as compared to families get together and communicating through social media and cellphones.

Ms Reginah Koorapetse is of the notion that Christmas cards are no longer relevant. “I used to exchange them but nowadays I value being with people than sending cards”. Ms Koorapetse view cards as irrelevant as people may read the messages and throw the cards away while being with people is merrier and people get to ‘catch up’.

As for little Olorato Chillyboy said her family does not exchange Christmas cards, she only receives them from friends at school.

Ms Tebogo Otlogetswe says the culture of exchanging Christmas cards is diminishing and is only common in young people as she and her friend are still doing it. “It used to happen a lot in the past, but nowadays elders would prefer to have lunches together than sending cards”, she said.

An elderly woman Ms Mpho Monora reiterates that Batswana do not value exchanging Christmas cards. “It is better to invite loved ones and share food together than buying and sending cards which is costly and tiresome”, she said.

Nomsa France shared the same sentiments, saying they have a family gathering every during Christmas at their grandmother’s place in Molepolole where they exchange presents. A shop assistant at Giftique store Boikhutso Nyepetsi says Christmas cards are not common anymore as their sales are very low.

In general young people prefer social media and cellphones to convey their Christmas messages to friends and relatives while the elderly prefer social gatherings. ENDS