Celebrations at this time of the year can often reach peak periods when some become so lost in the partying aspect that excessive noise penetrating the thickest walls may be music for some, while others quietly endure such audio invasions as a part of the culture today, when people can become part of a party without being there.

Most Bermudian neighbourhoods are closely knitted, with no great distance between houses. We should state up front that Bermudians are usually quite understanding and willing to accept louder-than-usual party sounds at least once a year.

On the other hand, in the spirit of being tolerant, it would be in good taste to be considerate to the seniors who are scattered throughout our communities.

It is not that they frown on young people having a good time; in fact, they encourage people of all ages who wish to share in the festive spirit. However, without taking anything away from family get-togethers, the best community spirit would be to remember that our seniors are very special people who are still a part of community life.

Many of these seniors remember a time when the only sounds heard during Christmas Eve were from small bands, along with groups of singers who moved from house to house in celebrating the true meaning of Christmas and what hope for mankind the birth of a special baby would mean for the world.

It was also a time when the Christmas tree in most homes had the aroma of Bermuda cedar, and that was because cedar was plentiful throughout the Island back then.

It was also a time when, after taking pictures with the camera of the day, one at times felt waiting to have the film processed seemed an eternity. Making things worse after the wait was to find out that many people were without heads in the photographs. Our seniors have seen Bermuda evolve from that rather quiet atmosphere to what has become a pulsating, throbbing and fast-moving society, with just about every type of modern communication gadget and with people stumbling over each other texting as though the world was ending. That part of modern life is here to stay — one can choose to be a participant or observe from the sidelines. It is wonderful just to have a choice.

In the days ahead, Bermuda will be bubbling with last-minute shoppers scurrying about in a vibrant atmosphere wondering who they might have forgotten on that magic list.

If one is not careful, it would be easy to become so immersed in the materialistic part of the event that simply what we are celebrating can become clouded and the meaning blurred.

A great gift and tribute to our seniors this Christmas would be for our communities to be more sensitive, as music is played so loud in some parties that sign language is required to communicate.

Yes, it is a time to celebrate with family and friends, and no one would discourage that, but with consideration.

Our seniors helped to build this country and they deserve honour and respect during their sunset years.

The lights will burn brightly during Christmas celebrations, but they will burn even brighter as long as we never forget our seniors at this special time to pause and reflect on all that makes Bermuda a wonderful place to call home.

With more community co-operation in this area, the Bermuda Police would perhaps have a little more time to enjoy the festivities themselves.

Now that would be a great gift, which it is to be hoped would last throughout the new year. It’s worth a try.