Christmas Editorial: Of Peace and Goodwill

When nature lashes at our homes, we look helplessly at the devastation around us - toppled trees, a heap of debris that used to be a dwelling, soaked belongings, tattered lives. Nature's fury knows no bounds, neither rich nor poor, in the lowlands or on higher grounds, at any time of night or day. Yet, those in hovels, squatting on lands near creeks and shorelines are more vulnerable than those in mansions. More significant than strong edifices, churches and chapels, government buildings and schoolhouses that shelter the homeless and the dispossessed are the volunteer workers and rescuers who are nameless and sometimes go thankless.

When political leaders play gods with the country's economy and strap generations in Sisyphean debt amortizations, we feel inutile in our puny efforts to move forward. Yet, move forward we must, because our children and our children's children depend on what we achieve now to give meaning to their future. Every conscientious act spells heroism in today's reality.

When nations go to war for an ideal, the carnage can seem justified; whereas, when men kill each other for religious beliefs, the carnage becomes a parody. Indeed, the killings highlight the essential contradictions and their basic meaninglessness. More so when tactics employed are done in stealth and wanton destruction...otherwise known as terrorism.

When Christians mock Christ's ultimate gift of His Life among us, the world becomes a desolate place, a terrifying place. Christmas allows us to assess our spiritual depth or shallowness. It offers a space for us to redirect our ways and remold our spirit. The message of Christmas, which is peace, hope and goodwill among men, must be upheld despite the sordid reality we are in.

Peace and goodwill are needed for world survival, for Christians and non- Christians alike. God's peace and love be with you...

Have a meaningful Christmas this year.

You can reach me at mayen8tan@yahoo.com