Released on December 12, 2013
This is an incredible time of year. I love it!
It’s a time to slow down a bit and to focus on what matters the most – the people we love and the communities we’re so fortunate to belong to.
It’s a time to reflect on the past year with gratitude … and to look forward to the New Year with hope and optimism.
And, for many of us, it’s a time to celebrate the simplest yet most profound gift of all: the birth of a child over 2,000 years ago and an incredible message of peace, love, and redemption. A message that calls us to look out for one another, to comfort those who suffer, and to bring hope to those who despair.
In so many ways, it’s that spirit of extraordinary generosity and kindness that makes this time of year so incredible.
And I think there’s something extra special about Christmas here in Saskatchewan.
Though most of us aren’t big fans of shoveling driveways and scraping windows, I’m sure we all recognize that there is a lot of beauty in the glistening snow, the trees covered in frost, and the bright stars in the big winter sky.
And, while Saskatchewan people are incredibly big-hearted all year round, we’re all especially generous at this time of year … as we do a bit more to support those in need, whether that’s here at home or halfway around the world in the Philippines where a disastrous typhoon left so many families devastated just a few weeks ago.
Christmas is indeed a very special time of year, because it’s when we intentionally focus on what matters the most.
As the new NDP leader, I’ve been on the road a lot and I’ve loved every opportunity to meet so many of you and to listen to your concerns, your hopes, and your dreams – but I have to say I’m really looking forward to taking a few days off at Christmas … to spend time with Ruth and to play with our young daughters.
I’m looking forward to visiting the farm, catching-up with family and enjoying good traditional food – like lefse. I’m looking forward to building a snow-fort with the kids and seeing their expressions as we gather as a family to open gifts.
I love this time of year!
However you and your loved ones celebrate the season, I hope it’s a good one for you.
And, on behalf of my wife, Ruth, our family, and all the NDP MLAs – I wish you a Merry Christmas, joy-filled holidays, and a very happy New Year!
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For more information, contact:
Official Opposition
Regina
Phone: 306-787-7388