It is a time of prayer, thanks-giving, eating and drinking. On the other hand family and friends use the Christmas holidays as an opportunity for reunion after a long time without seeing each other because of work or other commitments. Still some people perform rituals during these holidays to put their lives on the right track. In short, Christmas is not business as usual. Most businesses close during these long holidays to give staff a well earned rest.
However, for medical staff this is but a theory. Under normal circumstances, hospitals and clinics are open 24 hours a day. Staffed by nurses, no doubt the backbone of the health care delivery system in Botswana, the hospitals and clinics are essential service providers as they save lives even at the most critical moments. Because the nurses, as well as other medical professionals are vital to our society, they provide a service directly linked to our lives. In a way they determine whether we die or continue to live and enjoy yet another day, another holiday.
