View From the Legislature

One of the things that has become my favorite part of Christmas in recent years is receiving Christmas cards and emails. More and more these cards, and the letters that sometimes accompany them, are a reflection of the families and individuals that send them.

Many of the cards include pictures of household pets, photos from recent vacations, include updates on children in the family, or feature clothing that is reflective of the family and their passions. It’s a great way to get a quick snap-shot into the values and experiences of people and families that you might not otherwise know. That was the case this year for my own family as we wore Winnipeg Jets jerseys for our Christmas card as a reflection of the passion we have for the return of the NHL to our province this year.

The same can be said for the various Christmas gatherings and celebrations that are held by families and organizations. They are usually marked by traditions that are followed year after year. My wife Kim and I are grateful to be invited to many celebrations at this time of the year and we witness firsthand the different traditions people bring to this season. We of course have our own traditions within our family as well.

While the cards, letters and celebrations are all different in their own way and reflect the personalities and values of those who send and host them, there are common threads that run through most of them. They show the importance of family and loved ones. They often reflect on special memories that were made. They are consistent in sending a message of encouragement and hope.

And that is fitting, as the essence of the very first Christmas, is a message of love, encouragement and of eternal hope.

While these are common expressions of Christmas, this time of year can be difficult for some. Just as remembering special memories can be joyful, they can also be hard when a loved one has passed away. Health challenges also make fully celebrating this time of the year difficult as well. For each of you struggling during this time of the year, my hope is that the spirit of the season, and friends and family nearby, will give you comfort and peace.

Together with my wife Kim and my son Malachi, I want to wish each of you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. We hope that the individual passion and personality, the hope and encouragement, and the special memories that you share in your cards and letters and with each other will be present with you throughout 2012.