Merry Christmas & Happy new Year???

In this very special season, I want to share a message filled with love, reflection, and solidarity. Christmas is a time to celebrate, but it’s also an opportunity to remember the blessing we have to live in a place where peace and stability are a daily reality.

Let’s remember that there are citizens facing difficult times of war, fear, and scarcity. It’s painful to imagine the adversities they are going through, the uncertainty they feel, and the daily challenges they face.

Christmas encourages us to cultivate generosity and compassion, even as we enjoy festive moments and feasts. Let’s take a moment to reflect on the blessing of having food on our table and consider the option of not eating excessively, avoiding the waste of food that could feed those who are hungry.

Remember that Christmas goes beyond individual beliefs. Let’s respect and celebrate the diversity of our community, recognizing and valuing different traditions and beliefs. Tolerance and respect are essential to build a strong and united community.

During these holidays, let’s reject excessive consumerism and materialism. Don’t let the Christmas spirit be overshadowed by the relentless pursuit of expensive gifts or the pressure to wear new clothes. Instead, let’s focus on sharing meaningful moments with our loved ones, cultivating authentic and lasting relationships.

As parents, let’s remember that teaching our children the value of simplicity and gratitude is an invaluable gift. Let’s not feed the idea that Christmas is exclusively about material gifts. Teach them to appreciate love, connection, and empathy.

Happy holidays and a prosperous New Year to all.

First posted in December 2023