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This is the time of year when the spirit of peace and love fills our homes, our streets and reaches everywhere in these beautiful islands we call home. This is a season of reflection, a time to consider our values, what matters and what matters less, a time to share our blessings and to think of how we can strengthen the bonds of friendship and love that bind us to each other.
I encourage all to take the time to join with their families and friends in whatever is your tradition that celebrates and affirms the spirit of the holidays. From the Christmas Tree lightings, to the Challenge of the Carols in Emancipation Garden, to Crucian Christmas Festival, to the annual Christmas Party in Cruz Bay, let us all come together in our celebrations with the spirit of good will and friendship that is the foundation of our community. And as we celebrate Christmas, Kwanzaa and Hanukkah, I ask everyone to stay safe, to respect others, and do what you can to share the joy of these special holidays, most especially with those less fortunate than ourselves.
I join in the prayers of all that the coming New Year will be one that keeps us healthy as well as one that is both more peaceful and more prosperous. Let us greet 2012 with optimism, with courage and with a renewed spirit of unity and community. I have no doubt that we can overcome all the challenges that lie before us, that we can indeed improve the quality of life for us all, if we remain committed to working together and sharing both our blessings and our needed sacrifices.
Cecile and I wish everyone a Merry Christmas, a Happy Hanukkah, a Happy Kwanzaa and we wish you all the very best in 2012. Be it with a toast of guavaberry, the hug of a child or the company of your loved ones, may the magic of this special time of year be enjoyed by one and all.
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