Opinion

Poignant season

Monday, December 24, 2001

Christmas is always a special time of the year, but it is more poignant this year because of the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11. We were shaken when America was attacked, and we grieved at the senseless loss of life and the terrible evil perpetrated against our nation. Like terrible tragedies of the past, the horrible attacks reminded us of how great a gift life is ... and how precious our families and our friends are to us.

That?s the Christmas message which is ringing throughout the land ... the realization that what really matters is not money ... nor fame ... nor material things; but our love and concern for one another. Love is the hallmark of every great religion ... and it is the lesson we must spread if goodness is to prevail. In the Christian faith, the life-lifting philosophy is expressed in the words enscribed in Luke: ?Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will towards men.?

We don?t say it often enough. It sounds too mushy and churchy. But, as we learned Sept. 11, we must never be silenced again. At Christmastime in the middle of this great country, we proclaim the two greatest pieces of advice in human history: Give glory to God, and extend peace and good will to those who share space with us on planet earth.

It costs nothing; but it means everything. Together, with God?s help, we will change the world.

Respond to this story

Posting a comment requires free registration: