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Navigating Christmas in the Digital Age: Avoiding Pitfalls and Embracing Meaningful Celebrations

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4 weeks ago

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In the digital age, Christmas has taken on a new dimension, with the proliferation of technology and online platforms transforming how we celebrate this festive season. While the advancements in digital tools offer convenience, connectivity, and innovation, there are also potential pitfalls and wrong approaches that can detract from the true spirit of Christmas. From the overemphasis on materialism and digital disconnect from loved ones to the environmental impact of our digital activities and the risk of digital overload, it is crucial to navigate the digital landscape mindfully to preserve the essence of Christmas. This piece explores the wrong approach to Christmas Day in the digital age, highlighting the challenges and implications of falling victim to these pitfalls.

The Christmas spirit is palpable as we don our festive sweaters and sip hot cocoa. Yet, in this digital age, are we truly embracing the essence of the holiday season? With social media at our fingertips and endless online shopping options, how are we navigating this traditional day of celebration in a world dominated by technology? Let us delve into how the digital era has reshaped our experiences and explore how we can ensure that the true spirit of Christmas is not lost in the virtual realm.
Indeed, in the digital age, Christmas Day has taken on a new level of excitement and interconnectedness. Here are a few ways in which the holiday is experienced in the digital era:
1. Online shopping: The rise of e-commerce has made purchasing gifts for loved ones quicker and easier. People can browse and buy presents from the comfort of their own homes, with many retailers offering special discounts and promotions for the holiday season.
2. Virtual celebrations: With many families living far apart, video calls and online platforms have become popular for connecting with loved ones on Christmas Day. People can gather virtually to exchange gifts, share meals, and participate in holiday traditions, even miles apart.
3. Social media: Christmas is widely shared on social media platforms, with people posting photos of their decorations, meals, and celebrations. It has become a way to spread holiday cheer and connect with others worldwide who are also celebrating.
4. Digital decorations: With the rise of innovative technology, many people use digital displays and light shows to decorate their homes for the holidays. Technology has made it easier to create a festive atmosphere, from colourful LED lights to synchronised music displays.
5. Online entertainment: Streaming services offer a wide range of holiday-themed movies, songs, and shows for people to enjoy on Christmas Day. Families can cosy on the couch and watch their favourite Christmas classics or discover new holiday content together.
In the digital age, Christmas has become more connected, convenient, and customisable. From online shopping to virtual celebrations, technology has transformed the holiday season and brought people closer together, even when they are physically apart.
How has the digital age revolutionised how we celebrate Christmas, leading to highly cost-effective methods of spreading holiday cheer? From virtual gatherings to online gift exchanges, the impact of technology on our festive traditions is undeniable. As we navigate this new landscape of digital celebrations, have we lost sight of the true essence of Christmas in favour of convenience and affordability? Let us delve into the implications of this cost-effective approach to Christmas celebrations and explore how we can balance embracing technology and preserving the magic of the holiday season.
One highly cost-effective way of celebrating Christmas in the digital age is using digital resources and platforms. Here are some ways this can be achieved and the impact it can have overall:
1. Virtual gift exchanges: Instead of purchasing physical gifts, consider organising a virtual exchange with friends and family. Websites and apps like Elfster allow participants to create wish lists, draw names, and exchange gifts online, saving money on shipping and reducing waste from packaging.
Impact: This can reduce the financial burden of buying multiple gifts and minimise the environmental impact of traditional gift-giving practices.
2. DIY digital greetings and decorations: Create personalized digital greeting cards or decorations using online design tools or apps. These can be shared digitally with loved ones, saving the cost of purchasing physical cards and decorations.
Impact: This saves money and reduces paper waste and the carbon footprint of producing and distributing physical cards and decorations.
3. Online subscription services: Consider gifting an online subscription service (such as streaming services, e-books, or online courses) to loved ones. These gifts can be more cost-effective than physical items and provide ongoing entertainment or learning opportunities.
Impact: This reduces the accumulation of physical goods and encourages sustainable consumption practices.
4. Virtual experiences: Instead of attending expensive holiday events or parties, consider hosting virtual gatherings with friends and family. Platforms like Zoom or Skype can be used to connect with loved ones for virtual celebrations, games, or activities.
Impact: This can save money on travel expenses and event costs while still allowing for meaningful connections and shared experiences.
Essentially, leveraging digital tools and resources for Christmas celebrations can be cost-effective and positively impact the environment, reducing waste and promoting sustainable consumption practices. Embracing digital alternatives can help make the holiday season more affordable, accessible, and environmentally friendly in the digital age.
What lessons can we extract from the intersection of economic development, sustainability, and the holiday season in the digital age? As we navigate a world shaped by technology and interconnectedness, how can we leverage these lessons to create a more sustainable and prosperous future for all? Through the lens of Christmas traditions and practices, what insights can we gain about balancing economic growth with environmental stewardship? Join us in exploring the implications of applying lessons from the holiday season to broader economic development and sustainability issues in the digital era.
The Christmas season in the digital age offers several lessons for economic development and sustainability that can be applied more broadly to society:
1. Embracing innovation: The digital age has transformed traditional holiday practices, encouraging individuals and businesses to adapt to new technologies and digital platforms. This demonstrates the importance of embracing innovation and leveraging technology for economic development and sustainability. By adopting digital solutions, businesses can streamline operations, reduce costs, and reach wider audiences, leading to economic growth and increased sustainability.
2. Sustainable consumption: The shift towards digital alternatives for gift-giving, decorations, and celebrations during the Christmas season highlights the importance of sustainable consumption practices. Individuals can decrease their environmental impact by choosing digital gifts, reducing packaging waste, minimising energy consumption through virtual gatherings and contributing to a more sustainable future. These practices can be applied year-round to promote responsible consumption and minimise resource depletion.
3. Global connectivity: The digital age has facilitated global connectivity and communication, allowing individuals to connect with loved ones, businesses, and communities worldwide. This interconnectedness offers opportunities for economic development through international trade, collaboration, and knowledge sharing. By leveraging digital platforms for networking and cooperation, countries can foster economic growth, innovation, and sustainable development on a global scale.
4. Flexibility and resilience: The digital age has underscored the importance of flexibility and resilience in adapting to rapidly changing circumstances. The ability to pivot to online platforms, remote work, and virtual events during the Christmas season demonstrates the value of agility and adaptability in navigating economic challenges and environmental risks. By fostering a culture of flexibility and resilience, individuals and organisations can better respond to crises, promote economic development, and enhance sustainability in an uncertain world.
Coherently, the Christmas season in the digital age offers valuable lessons for economic development and sustainability, emphasizing the role of innovation, sustainable consumption, global connectivity, and resilience in shaping a more prosperous and sustainable future for humanity. By applying these lessons to broader societal contexts, we can work towards building a more resilient, inclusive, and sustainable economy for all.
What are the consequences of taking the wrong approach to Christmas Day in the digital age? How can we course-correct and ensure that our celebrations in this technology-driven era are meaningful and fulfilling? Join us as we delve into the potential pitfalls of our current approach to the holiday season and consider alternative paths that prioritise connection, authenticity, and joy in the digital age.
While the digital age has brought about numerous benefits and opportunities for celebrating Christmas, there are also potential pitfalls and wrong approaches that can detract from the holiday spirit. Here are some examples of the wrong approach to Christmas Day in the digital age:
1. Overemphasis on materialism: With the convenience of online shopping and digital gift-giving, there is a risk of placing too much emphasis on material possessions and consumerism during Christmas. The pressure to buy extravagant gifts or showcase a perfect holiday on social media can lead to a focus on material wealth rather than the true meaning of Christmas, such as love, kindness, and family.
2. Disconnecting from loved ones: While digital technologies can help us stay connected with friends and family members who are physically distant, there is a risk of using these tools as a substitute for meaningful face-to-face interactions. Spending excessive time on smartphones, social media, or gaming during Christmas Day can detract from the joy of spending quality time with loved ones and building genuine relationships.
3. Environmental impact: The increased use of electronic devices, online shopping, and digital decorations during Christmas can have a significant environmental impact, contributing to electronic waste, energy consumption, and carbon emissions. Failing to consider the environmental consequences of our digital activities during the holiday season can undermine sustainability efforts and harm the planet in the long run.
4. Digital overload: The constant bombardment of digital messages, advertisements, and notifications during Christmas Day can lead to information overload and digital fatigue. Spending excessive time online, engaging in virtual events, or constantly checking social media feeds can detract from mindfulness, relaxation, and in-person interactions, ultimately diminishing the joy and peace of the holiday season.
Notably, the wrong approach to Christmas Day in the digital age involves prioritising materialism over spiritual values, disconnecting from loved ones in favor of digital distractions, ignoring the environmental impact of digital activities, and succumbing to digital overload. By being mindful of these potential pitfalls and striking a balance between digital and real-world experiences, we can ensure a more meaningful, sustainable, and enjoyable Christmas celebration for all.
In conclusion, as we navigate the digital age and embrace the conveniences and opportunities it offers, we must reflect on our approach to celebrating Christmas and ensure we do not lose sight of the true essence of the holiday season. By being mindful of the potential pitfalls discussed, such as materialism, digital disconnect, environmental impact, and digital overload, we can strive to cultivate meaningful and sustainable Christmas celebrations that promote love, kindness, and genuine connections with loved ones. By striking a balance between our digital interactions and real-world experiences, we can uphold the values of Christmas and create lasting memories that transcend the fleeting nature of technology. Ultimately, by approaching Christmas Day in the digital age with intentionality and mindfulness, we can ensure a more enriching, fulfilling, and meaningful holiday season for ourselves and those around us.

♦ Professor Ojo Emmanuel Ademola is a Nigerian Professor of Cyber Security and Information Technology Management, and holds a Chartered Manager Status, and by extension, Chartered Fellow (CMgr FCMI) by the highly Reputable Royal Chartered Management Institute. 

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Path to National Rejuvenation – Advice to Nigerians in 2025

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2 weeks ago

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January 4, 2025

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We will start a new decade, 2030 – 2039, five years from today. By then, humans might be going to space for holidays. Driverless cars may have become the norm on our streets. The average life expectancy is almost certainly higher in many countries. Artificial Intelligence (AR) will be working wonders in healthcare. Where will Nigeria and Nigerians be then? What will be our lot within the human community?

Nigerians should no longer be aloof to the affairs of their country and how they are governed from year to year. In 2025, they should, with one voice and one heart, resolve to change the trajectory of their country towards delivering a better life for all citizens (without exception) and becoming a more respected nation in the world.

As a Nigerian-American citizen, I have spent much of my adult life in the United States. I have worked as a productive citizen, paying taxes to help build the American society. Now, I am looking forward to retirement. But it is with a heavy heart because the country of my birth is moving at full speed in reverse gear. And I have family and friends back home whose plight depletes my joy.

We will start a new decade, 2030 – 2039, five years from today. By then, humans might be going to space for holidays. Driverless cars may have become the norm on our streets. The average life expectancy is almost certainly higher in many countries. Artificial Intelligence (AR) will be working wonders in healthcare. Where will Nigeria and Nigerians be then? What will be our lot within the human community?

Nigerians should no longer be aloof to the affairs of their country and how they are governed from year to year. In 2025, they should, with one voice and one heart, resolve to change the trajectory of their country towards delivering a better life for all Nigerians (without exception) and becoming a more respected nation in the world.

As a Nigerian-American citizen, I have spent much of my adult life in the United States. I have worked as a productive citizen, paying taxes to help build American society. Now, I am looking forward to retirement. But it is with a heavy heart because the country of my birth is moving at full speed in reverse gear. And I have family and friends back home whose plight depletes my joy.

My humble advice to the people and government of Nigeria is simple: Borrow a leaf from thriving and progressive countries in critical sectors and get your act together. You don’t have to reinvent the wheel. The world owes you nothing. You owe yourselves everything.

The most important thing to borrow is not money or even technology (as crucial as they may seem). It is the mindset of working relentlessly for the common good and posterity, not for immediate, selfish benefits or the interest of small groups closely related to us.

I arrived in America over 40 years ago, barely from my teenage years. I knew no one who could speak for me. But I received a decent education and regular odd jobs to pay my way through. It was a hard life, but the opportunity was available to me (and others like me) without minding my status as an immigrant. In the years since my graduation, I have paid back that favor with multiple interests. That’s how systems are built to be self-sustaining and grow.

No one I know feels that they owe Nigeria anything. Indeed, most think that Nigeria denied them opportunities and owes them arrears. Changing this narrative would require more than the leadership mindset shift I referred to earlier. The citizens must also be involved to hold elected and appointed leaders accountable and monitor their job performances. In doing so, they must be prepared to enforce their sovereignty or die trying.

As G.K. Chesterton rightly said, “The paradox of courage is that a person must be somewhat careless with their life to keep it.” The balance of duty, privilege, and fear keeps leaders on their toes.

In the last decade since APC came to power, it has become fashionable for Presidents to ignore or scorn public opinion while carrying on as kings and emperors with divine right to rule. This is a tragic development that must be quickly arrested. The Office of the Citizen is the most important in a Republic. The President and Governors answer to that office and take their instructions therefrom.

To exercise that office, citizens should demand regular town hall meetings from their elected leaders where they can ask questions and demand answers. If the answers are not provided or are inadequate, they should demand the resignation or removal of affected officials.

All public service outlets’ official email addresses, phone numbers, or social media handles should be in the public domain. Through these, citizens may file complaints about hardships, make suggestions, and report service failures from government officials or those asking for bribes to do their jobs. All allegations should be thoroughly investigated, and those found guilty should be fired.

Sometimes, even living in today’s Nigeria can be seen as an act of courage. Life should not be that way. Life should be enjoyed, not endured, by the living. Nigeria is a great country, blessed with enormous resources that can make it the most beautiful nation on earth.

Those of us in the Diaspora have a moral responsibility to help by using the expertise and experience gained from other climes to transform the country of our birth to be better than when we left and make us proud abroad.

The knottiest of Nigeria’s problems can be fixed simply by getting exemplary leadership into power – and insisting that the leadership recruitment system is not perverted. This ensures that leadership has vision and character compatible with the best values of the people. Can we see if the Chinese and Emirates of Dubai can do it?

♦ Dominic Ikeogu is a social and political commentator based in Minneapolis, USA.

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Champion for the Hungry: The Legacy of Congressman Mickey Leland

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2 months ago

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November 29, 2024

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…Honoring His Memory On What Would Have Been Mickey’s 80th Birthday

As a founding member of the Mickey Leland Youth Task Force at the age of nine, alongside my sister, who was eleven, I reflect on how much his legacy has shaped my life. Now, at 53 years old, I carry vivid memories of witnessing Mickey Leland’s impactful work in the community, in Washington, and in Africa.

Though yesterday is gone forever, his mission reminds us there is still much to do. Mickey Leland was more than a congressman—he was a warrior against hunger and a champion for creating educational opportunities. Through programs like the Kibbutz Program with the Jewish community and the Student Exchange Program with Kenya, he ensured youth had transformative experiences that expanded their worldview and understanding.

On November 27, I celebrate the memories of this beacon of light as we mark what would have been his 80th birthday. Mickey Leland’s life was a testament to extraordinary leadership. From his beginnings in Lubbock, Texas, in 1944, to his journey to Houston’s 5th Ward, and his relentless mission on Capitol Hill, he dedicated himself to eradicating hunger, addressing healthcare, and uplifting the lives of the forgotten. His work still inspires and calls us to action today.

These formative experiences instilled in Leland an unwavering dedication to justice, equity, and opportunity for all. His journey to Congress was fueled by a deep passion for service. After graduating from Phillis Wheatley High School in Houston’s 5th Ward, he pursued his education at Texas Southern University, becoming a pharmacist. However, his true calling was in the community among the people, where he organized free medical clinics for underserved neighborhoods. Through this work, he witnessed the stark realities of hunger and poverty firsthand, igniting a resolve to tackle these challenges on a broader scale.

In 1978, Leland was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives, representing Texas’s 18th congressional district. He wasted no time taking hunger to Capitol Hill, believing it was unacceptable for anyone to starve in a world of plenty. “Hunger knows no boundaries,” he often said, “and our fight must be just as boundless.” As the chair of the House Select Committee on Hunger, Leland’s efforts transcended partisan politics. He brought international attention to the plight of famine-stricken regions, particularly in Africa, where millions were starving. In 1985, he led congressional delegations to Ethiopia, drawing the world’s eyes to the devastation. His advocacy resulted in increased funding for food aid programs and partnerships with global organizations to combat hunger.

At home, Leland championed policies to address prescription drug costs, homelessness, and the challenges facing low-income communities. He understood that hunger was often a symptom of larger systemic issues. He fought for housing programs to support the homeless and economic initiatives to create jobs for unskilled and under-skilled workers. His efforts provided a lifeline to countless families who had lost hope. Leland’s ability to connect with people—whether a world leader or a struggling parent—was unparalleled. “Once you met Mickey, you felt like you’d known him forever,” his colleagues often said. His passion inspired action and his charisma drew supporters from all walks of life. Tragically, Mickey Leland’s life was cut short on August 7, 1989, when his plane crashed in Ethiopia during a humanitarian mission to deliver food and medical supplies to refugees.

The world lost a bold and compassionate leader, but his legacy endures. Today, programs he championed continue to provide food, housing, and opportunities for those in need. Statues and schools bear his name, but his greatest monument is the lives he touched and the movements he ignited. Mickey Leland believed that hunger and poverty were not insurmountable. “We are our brothers’ and sisters’ keepers,” he often reminded others. Through his life and work, he proved that one person’s determination could indeed change the world.

_______________

♦ Rep Jarvis Johnson represents House District 139. In 2005, Johnson was elected to the Houston City Council to represent District B, making him one of the youngest Council Members in history.

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Empowering Online Safety and Privacy in the Global South Toward a Secured Digital Future

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3 months ago

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October 27, 2024

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In today’s digital age, where technology is deeply embedded in our daily lives, online safety and privacy have emerged as crucial concerns that individuals must address proactively. The ever-evolving online ecosystem presents a myriad of cyber threats and privacy breaches that have the potential to compromise personal information, identity, and financial security. As such, individuals must navigate this complex landscape with vigilance, awareness, and a thorough understanding of best practices for safeguarding their online identities. By exploring examples, issues, thought processes, and potential solutions related to online safety and privacy, we can delve deeper into the strategies that empower individuals to protect themselves in the digital realm.

Online safety and privacy are paramount in the digital age, as individuals must navigate a complex online ecosystem where cyber threats and privacy breaches are prevalent. Let’s delve deeper into this topic by examining examples, issues, thought processes, and potential solutions related to online safety and privacy:
1. Examples:
– Using strong, unique passwords for online accounts and enabling two-factor authentication to enhance security.
– Be cautious when sharing personal information online, such as social security numbers, financial details, or sensitive data, to prevent identity theft or fraud.
– Avoid clicking on suspicious links, downloading unknown attachments, or responding to unsolicited emails to protect against malware, phishing scams, and other cyber threats.
– Regularly updating software and applications to patch security vulnerabilities and protect against potential exploits.
2. Issues:
– Data breaches and leaks can expose individuals’ personal information, including passwords, contact details, and financial data, leading to identity theft, fraud, or other malicious activities.
– Online scams, phishing attacks, and social engineering tactics can deceive individuals into sharing sensitive information or falling victim to fraudulent schemes.
– Privacy violations by companies, websites, or third-party apps may compromise individuals’ personal data, browsing habits, or online activities without their consent.
– Lack of awareness or understanding of online safety best practices can leave individuals vulnerable to cyber threats, scams, or privacy risks.
3. Thought processes:
– Recognizing the importance of safeguarding personal information and maintaining privacy online is the first step toward enhancing online safety and security.
– Being vigilant, sceptical, and cautious when interacting with online platforms, websites, or communications can help individuals identify potential risks and avoid falling for scams or malicious activities.
– Understanding common cybersecurity threats, such as phishing emails, ransomware attacks, or social engineering tactics, can empower individuals to protect themselves and mitigate risks effectively.
– Practicing good digital hygiene, such as regularly updating passwords, using secure connections, and avoiding public Wi-Fi networks, can bolster online safety and privacy.
4. Solutions:
– Educating individuals about online safety best practices, privacy protection, and cybersecurity awareness can help raise awareness and empower users to take proactive measures to safeguard their online identities.
– Implementing security features, such as encryption, secure authentication methods, and privacy controls, in online platforms and services can enhance user protection and mitigate potential risks.
– Engaging in ongoing training, workshops, or awareness campaigns focused on cybersecurity, phishing prevention, and data privacy can equip individuals with the knowledge and skills needed to navigate the online landscape securely.
– Advocating for stronger data protection laws, regulations, and accountability measures to ensure that companies and organizations safeguard users’ personal information and prioritize online privacy.
Essentially, online safety and privacy are critical considerations in the digital age, as individuals must be proactive in protecting their personal information and maintaining their privacy online. By understanding the examples, issues, thought processes, and solutions related to online safety and privacy, individuals can enhance their cybersecurity awareness, mitigate risks, and safeguard their digital identities in an increasingly interconnected and vulnerable online environment.
Intriguingly, in the dynamic context of the Global South, characterized by rapid digital transformation and emerging opportunities, the significance of online safety and privacy is paramount. As individuals in these regions navigate the intricate online landscape, they are confronted with a multitude of cyber threats and privacy breaches that jeopardize their personal information and digital identities. By delving deeper into this pivotal topic and tailoring adaptable approaches to the immediate needs, values, future of work, and sustainability concerns of Global South nations, we can develop strategies to empower individuals to safeguard themselves in this digital age.
Undoubtedly, recognizing and managing the importance of safeguarding personal data and maintaining privacy online is the foundational step towards enhancing online safety and security in these regions. Vigilance, scepticism, and caution in online interactions can help individuals identify and mitigate potential risks, such as data breaches, online scams, and privacy violations that may compromise their digital well-being. Understanding common cybersecurity threats and practising good digital hygiene, such as secure authentication methods and regular software updates, are essential components in bolstering online safety and privacy for individuals in the Global South. Through education, advocacy, and the implementation of security measures tailored to the specific needs of these regions, we can promote a culture of cybersecurity awareness and empower individuals to navigate the digital landscape securely. By fostering resilience, integrity, and a commitment to data protection, we can work towards a safer and more secure online environment that upholds privacy, trust, and digital empowerment for individuals in the Global South.
In conclusion, the digital age offers tremendous opportunities for connectivity, knowledge-sharing, and innovation, but it also brings inherent risks and vulnerabilities that individuals must address to safeguard their online identities. By adopting a proactive mindset, staying informed about cybersecurity threats, and implementing best practices for online safety and privacy, individuals can navigate the digital landscape with confidence and resilience. With ongoing education, awareness, and collaboration among stakeholders, we can strive towards a safer and more secure online environment that upholds the principles of privacy, data protection, and digital trust. Together, we can harness the transformative power of technology while ensuring that online safety and privacy remain paramount in our digital future.

♦ Professor Ojo Emmanuel Ademola is a Nigerian Professor of Cyber Security and Information Technology Management, and holds a Chartered Manager Status, and by extension, Chartered Fellow (CMgr FCMI) by the highly Reputable Royal Chartered Management Institute. 

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