With Christmas arriving in only four short days, it’s as good a time as any to look back on the year that was.
This year has been much like every year that has gone before it. There were ups and downs, victories and defeats, and yet the world keeps spinning.
As we gather with friends and family in this festive season, we perhaps should be mindful that we are lucky to live in a community, province and country that is among the safest in the world.
There are many people around the world who live each day with a great deal of uncertainty, wondering where they may be getting their next meal, where they may be sleeping that night, and wondering when they’ll see their loved ones again.
Our thoughts should at some time drift to the families affected by the school shooting in Newtown, Conn. It’s a tragedy when children just starting their lives are ripped away from their families for no apparent reason.
And it’s a tragedy for the families of the teachers, who will never be able to hold their loved ones close again. What we should take from this senseless act of violence is a newfound recognition of how fleeting life is, and live it to its fullest each and every day.
Take advantage of the Christmas season to think about your family and what they mean to you.
If you have children, never forget to show them you love them. It’s like the old saying, actions speak louder than words.
However, don’t forget to tell them you love them.
In fact, tell everyone you love how you feel about them. You never know when you won’t have that chance again.
But while we should remember and think of the bad that has happened in this world, we can’t forget all the good this community has to offer.
Westlock is a place where you can find almost everything you need, and all you need to do is ask.
It’s all a testament to the loving and giving spirit here. We wouldn’t be the community we are today if it weren’t for people who go out of their way to help in any way they can. And for that we thank you.
Have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
