Christmas not so merry for some

‘TIS the season for being merry and generous, but not everyone shares in the sentiment.

For the homeless, unemployed ‘street people’ in Swakopmund, it’s still a matter of survival, and even though most people are in a spending mood, these particular residents are not necessarily the favourite characters to have around during a festive atmosphere.There are about a dozen ‘bums’ in town, with some having come to Swakopmund in the hope that other people might be more generous when it comes to handing out a dollar or two.’Christmas and New Year’s is not so happy for me. Most of my family are dead, and those who are supposed to be close to me have rejected me,’ said ‘Swani’ (real name not given).Samantha and Milton have been on the streets for many years now, and Swakopmunders are familiar with them – politely approaching people for ‘a few cents, or a couple of dollars to buy food’.’This is reality. People see us, but they forget about us just as soon. To them we are just a nuisance, regardless of the fact that we are just as much human as they are, with real basic needs,’ said ‘Maggi’ (real name not given).These people live on the streets and sleep wherever they can find shelter. It’s not always safe and cozy, but they have nowhere else to go.They admit that drugs, alcohol and abuse from family have played a major role in their current states of affairs, but like everyone else, they also hope for a second chance.They also admit that if they did not get high or drunk, they would not have the courage to beg.’It’s embarrassing, but how else will we be able to get food,’ they agreed.Sometimes they would offer to do ‘car guarding’, but most people are not interested in their assistance.Asked if people are more generous during the festive season, the answers are mixed.’Maybe a little more, but it’s still a struggle,’ they said.Stories of unfairness, injustice and emotional pain are rampant among them, and for some, even hope is elusive.’I have a family, but they have rejected me. I would love to spend Christmas with them, but this won’t happen,’ said ‘Maggi’.Said ‘Swani’: ‘All I know is that Christmas is the birthday of Jesus, but regardless of this tough life, I still wish everyone a merry Christmas and a happy New Year.’