By Sue-Ann Wayow
THE world generally at the end of 2024 may seem nightmarish but citizens of Trinidad and Tobago are still very blessed in this land.
Prime Minister Dr Keith Rowley in his Christmas message said there was much to be thankful for as the Christmas holiday is celebrated not only by the Christian community but by others of different beliefs.
“This tells us much of the essence of the message of Jesus Christ, its commonality with other teachings, its universal appeal and also the orientation and maturity of our citizenry,” he said.
Dr Rowley said, “We are living today in an era which, many see as a major shift in the global paradigm, with social, cultural, political, economic differences and violent conflicts tearing us apart, some say worse than ever.
“At Christmas time, there is always that special moment, when we all move away from the daily anxieties of our lives. That moment is special because we go beyond life’s challenges and suffering to search and pray for new, hopeful solutions and meanings within the fabric of both of our individual and collective lives.”
He continued, “When we do turn to the wider world we see its nightmares, its dysfunctionalities, crime, social disorders, war, and genocide. Our minds later return, thankfully, to a balanced moment, to the beauty of nature, our country and the mysteries of God.
“At this point, we may realise how blessed we are, living here in this land, where, in comparison, there are still institutions of stability, daily expressions of tolerance for each other, and genuine attempts at peaceful coexistence.”
The prime minister said Christmastime should be a time of remembrance and one of focus and direction.
The birth of Jesus Christ, the occasion that is celebrated at this time of year was to encourage and enable human beings to become better, to have hope and to care for each other, he added.
Dr Rowley said, “Our Christmas celebrations today should not be seen as just a grand celebration, but as part of the continuing search of each one of us to find the spirit of Jesus, which resides within us. It calls to us to remind us that we are capable of much more than we already are.
“Merry Christmas 2024. Let us, in our own way, continue our search, spreading peace, love, and joy throughout our families, our communities and indeed the world.”
