Alcohol destroys families

December, or the festive season, is a time when most of us let loose and enjoy life, switch off and forget about anything that is work-related.

- THULANI MAGAZI

January is the time to pick up the pieces and start all over again.

The month is also a time of reflection. We often take stock of what happened in December and explore new ways of doing things for a better future.

Having just returned from the Eastern Cape, where the foundation of my life was laid, my heart bleeds from the devastation of what was once a peaceful sanctuary, where we supported each other in times of difficulty and happiness.

I have been left with numerous questions.

Where did we go wrong?

What happened to the good old days when Christmas was highly treasured? Those were the years we would dress up as if there was no tomorrow.

What is happening to our beautiful villages?

Urbanisation has completely overshadowed everything that defines rural or village life.

Lawlessness is now the order of the day, while class and status have completely undermined humanity.