'Christmas is a joyous time'

'Christmas is a joyous time'

Shopping centers and malls in the city are becoming increasingly
crowded ahead of Christmas, as residents defy the terror threats
to get their holiday shopping done. The Jakarta Post asked
residents if the terror threats would affect their holiday plans.

Elvis, 28, sells used clothes in Senen market, Central
Jakarta. He lives with his aunt in Depok:

I don't understand how some people can attack others. All I
want to do is sell my clothes and celebrate Christmas in peace.

Of course, whenever I go to church I worry about the bombing
threats. But my belief that God will protect His home comforts
me. What worries me more is that these attacks can happen
anywhere.

Anyway, I will still go to church and celebrate Christmas
without fear. I discussed it with my aunt and we came to the
conclusion that there is no point in being afraid because
Christmas time is supposed to be a time of happiness.

I plan to get married after Christmas, so hopefully nothing
serious will happen before that day.

Yanto, 26, is an officer at National Police Headquarters in
South Jakarta. He lives with his wife in Cibubur, East Jakarta:

I cannot spend much time with my wife during Christmas because
I have to help guard public places. I get time off on Dec. 25,
but only to attend church.

As a police officer, I am prepared to follow orders to protect
people from bomb threats. I am very proud to show my loyalty and
service to the public and my country.

Concerning police preparations, we are ready to prevent
bombings and I believe Christmas will be peaceful.

What annoys me is that my wife is pregnant with our first
child and I want to spend more time with her. We expect the baby
to be born in about two months.

-- The Jakarta Post