My fellow Bahamians,
Christmas is once again here. This is the time when we celebrate the gift of Christ in the lives of our friends and family. I know that many of us are finding it difficult to get into the Christmas Spirit. The challenges that we have faced and continue to face have taken their toll on all of us.
We have witnessed record unemployment and its unfortunate consequence – an increase in violence. Far too many of our countrymen have lost their lives in an unnecessary battle to ride out this recession.
The economic downturn, coupled with a daunting lack of hope also claimed the lives of too many of our brothers and sisters to suicide.
In moments when things may seem bleak, I ask you to be brave as we look to a new year that brings with it the hope of a bright future.
I encourage you to let us march forward and look toward two thousand and eleven with a great promise. The trials we have embraced this past year are almost over.
To my constituents, the great people of Cat Island, Rum Cay and San Salvador, your perseverance and resilience are a beacon that serves as a model throughout the country. You are an inspiration to my family and me and at this time I say, Thank You. I also take this opportunity to wish you Season’s Greetings and God’s blessings in the year ahead.
In this past year of highs and lows we cannot forget the eight men who tragically lost their lives in a tragic plane crash this past October. All were well known members and friends of our community and their loss still echoes in my heart and the hearts of their loved ones. I ask you to be brave and know that God’s purpose, while not known to us, is always best.
This holiday season let us not forget to reach back to assist and uplift those who have fallen on hard times and despair. Let us all this holiday turn to them, our brothers and sisters, and lend a helping hand. Let us all remember them in our prayers. We are one Bahamas!
During this blessed season as we reflect on the grace of God, let us also personally assess our lives and its impact on each other. Let us grow together as a nation economically and spiritually as we celebrate God’s gift of his son and welcome a new year.
My family and I wish all Bahamians a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year.
