– by Nkosingiphile Ntshangase
In South Africa, April is always filled with public holidays as we celebrate Easter festivities. The Monday after the Easter weekend is Family Day, celebrated on the 18th of April this year. Families are encouraged to spend more quality time together on this day so that they may celebrate the festivities together. The gathering of family members, friends, and relatives allows them to enjoy the company of those dear to them. With COVID-19 and the recent extreme weather conditions, it may not be possible to do so; however, it is encouraged that families should come together to celebrate Family Day in spirit.
Time with family should be cherished as it cannot be repeated, and it is the best way to create lasting memories. Nothing compares to spending time with loved ones. We seem to spend less time with our family as we get older and life gets busier. If you don’t notice, time passes by, and what were once care-free days are consumed with deadlines and responsibilities. Unfortunately, it is difficult to find time for friends and family when lives get busy. It doesn’t take long for people you once spent time with to become strangers.
It is important to note that while this is tragic, it can be mitigated. The rewards of spending time with family and friends are immersible in the future. According to Medical News Today, socialising is also excellent for reducing stress levels. Friendship can help you forget the stresses of daily life and improve one’s overall well-being. It is imperative to carve out time for friends and family by making a concerted effort to schedule it. Their presence makes good times better and soothes the pain of the bad ones.
Due to South Africa being a rainbow nation, we don’t have set in stone traditions associated with Family Day as it varies from family to family. But here are some activities you can do with your family and friends over this long weekend:
- Host a braai with family and/or friends
- Have a picnic
- Call an old friend or long-distance relatives
- Host a treasure or egg hunt
- Cook a meal with your loved ones
- Donate food, clothes or blankets to those less fortunate as a family
- Participate in community outreach initiative as a family