Released on December 15, 1998
Friends, once again the Christmas season is here. I'd like to wish
the very best of the season to you and your family and to all the
people who hold a special place in your heart.
This holiday, perhaps more than any other on our calendar, brings us
warmth the warmth of family and friends, of peace and goodwill
during the coldest time of the year.
This holiday also celebrates what one Canadian writer called the
birth of light' at the time of the year when the nights are their
longest and darkest.
The juxtaposition of time and meaning offers us a compelling reminder
that we should nurture the values that have enabled us to build this
great province the values of faith and optimism.
Throughout the history of Saskatchewan, our people have always looked
with faith, past the snow and cold, to see the warmth that lives in
all human hearts.
We have always looked with optimism, past the long dark winter nights,
towards springtime and the rebirth of the light, of tolerance, hope
and love.
Finally, this holiday is time for us to express our affections
and appreciation of family and friends by exchanging gifts with
one another.
I hope that we might take a few moments to consider the many
gifts we all share by virtue of living in this great province and
this great nation of Canada.
And that in considering our gifts of freedom, tolerance, respect,
and community, we might all take a moment to reflect on the
responsibilities that come with our many blessings, and so to
support the many excellent charities, churches and other
organizations working to help extend the season's light and
warmth to everyone.
The late Governor-General Jean Vanier said, Perhaps what
Christmas is all about is to rediscover the child in all of us
that we have hearts, and are capable of love.'
On behalf of my wife Eleanore, our families, and all my
colleagues in the Government of Saskatchewan, I wish you all a
happy, joyous holiday and all the best for a peaceful and
prosperous 1999.
May God bless and keep you all.
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