Released on December 7, 2007
This has been a memorable year in Saskatchewan.
The Grey Cup victory by our Saskatchewan Roughriders;
Other significant changes;
New jobs and new challenges for many people in our province, including me.
However, now it's time to slow down for a few short days and take stock of what's important.
Our families, our friends and our good fortune - to live and prosper in a land of abundance and a province where life is safe, and life is sweet.
So, in this my first Christmas Message as Premier of Saskatchewan, I'd like to invite you to take that time and take stock.
Renew old acquaintances.
Hug your kids.
Go visit your neighbour. Share some fellowship at work.
Phone your mother.
Do all of those things that you've had to put off because we are living our lives in this fast paced, hectic world - full of cell phones and computers, family activities and work, and lately Christmas concerts - demanding our constant attention.
If you do one thing this year, do this: make Christmas a special time for your family and friends.
And better still....make it special for a stranger; someone who is not so fortunate, someone who is hungry, or sick, or lonely or worried about the future. This is the Saskatchewan that made national news when an entire province came together to send kids battling cancer to the Grey Cup.
And I also ask you to spare a thought for the many people working extra hours during the holiday season - people who may not be able to spend this special day with loved ones.
Whether they're working in health care, on the highways and streets or in fire halls or police cruisers, they are giving up their special times and special moments to make life safer and more secure for you and I.
On behalf of a grateful province, I would like to express my sincere thanks for their service.
There are also men and women from Saskatchewan around the world who are putting themselves in harm's way so that others may enjoy the freedom and prosperity we celebrate this holiday season.
My special message to you is simple and heartfelt.
God bless you. Come home safe.
"And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.
For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord."
From Tami, Megan, Colter, Faith and I, Merry Christmas Saskatchewan, and a Happy New Year to each and every one of you.
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For more information, contact:
Kathy Young
Executive Council
Regina
Phone: 306-787-0425
Email: kathy.young@gov.sk.ca