Even though I am a Muslim, I have deep respect for your religious beliefs. I find many aspects of Christianity truly wonderful—especially the emphasis on loving children and the teaching to love everyone regardless of their faith, rather than engaging in conflict. I believe this spirit of love and harmony is what we need to move the world forward; if there is love among people progress is inevitable.
You believe that we are all created by the same Creator. If every religion taught this, the world would be a much more beautiful place free from conflict.
This good news of power and majesty came in a very simple form. Jesus in his entire splendor was born in a manger, wrapped in swaddling clothes and adored by ordinary humans. In the simplest and humblest of births is manifested to all of creation to be adored and glorified. He is the lovely child, who’s in a crib with his beautiful parents and in the presence of farm animals. There is almost nothing special in that dark night. Yet, the true God manifested.
This is Christmas! The love that is given to all, so that all will have eternal happiness.
The good news of Christmas is a reminder for all of us that it is not just all shopping and gift giving. Christmas is not just a holiday for people to enjoy and celebrate. Christmas is not just an occasion to gather and have fun with friends. Christmas is not only a time to have feasts and drinks. Christmas is not just a season intended for those who have the means to have a good time. Christmas is not a season of false happiness and Joy. Christmas is not about lights, decors and music. Christmas is more than all material and commercial things that the season offers.
Christmas is a celebration for those who have been neglected by society. We remember them in our prayers and silence. Christmas is the time to give praise and thanksgiving for the new born King who silently teaches us to love. Christmas is saying to our loved ones that we truly love them. Christmas is saying I am happy that I am with you. Christmas is being thankful for all the graces received in the past year. Christmas is asking for forgiveness and reconciling with those we have wronged.
Christmas is for all the little ones and the poor in spirit, who have become our true teachers of love, care, truth and justice. It is for all who have reminded us of what a true Christmas observance is. It is showing to Jesus that we still adore and love him, by staying faithful and honest to Him.
All round the world, many Christians are celebrating the good news of the birth of Jesus. ( PBOH). But we should not forget our other brothers and sisters who cannot afford to celebrate for fear of persecution and threats of security.
We remember the dear soldiers in the front lines of war, the health care practitioners, on-call workers and others who have risked their lives and sacrificed their precious moments with the family so that others can have peace and comfort. May the Word, the expression of the Father, the Incarnated one that John testified to grant them a reason to celebrate, may the Word who guides and illuminates humans inspire them to have courage and confidence. May the Word allow all of us to cooperate with His Divine Wisdom, so that all of us can partake of his divine fullness. The beautiful child Jesus, who came in the humblest of all forms, brings us true Joy and Happiness, the good news that Christmas offer.
Christmas is about opening our hearts generously, facing our fears and starting all over again. When things are at their worst, someone up there holds us with love with the palm of his hand. Giving us comfort no words can even describe. It is okay to let go and just surrender everything that brought us pain. Christmas is here and one of the best gifts we can give ourselves are happiness and inner peace. Christmas is about giving and sharing our blessings. It is about thanking people for the smile they brought into our life. It is about love, forgiveness, of second chances and starting all over again.
It is about renewing ones hope, dreams and faith. It is a time to reflect on the significant events we all experienced throughout the year both the good and the bad.
This is ultimately my wish for you today and for the days to come. It is a call to prolong the Christmas message into the New Year. This will only happen if we work together so that next year, at this time, ours will be a more peaceful Dominica, a kinder Dominica, a more generous and just Dominica. It will only happen if the Christmas spirit is allowed to permeate the entire culture, dispelling all forms of darkness and allowing the light that Christ brings to bear on all aspects of our lives. Remember, we are what we celebrate!
And to fellow Nigerian Youth..
As you celebrate Christmas, kindly remember, your vibe attracts your tribe. Surround yourself with positivity, avoid unnecessary drama, and focus on growth. Stay trouble-free.
I remain your humble brother. Comrade Halilu Abu.. Organizing Secretary. Nigerian Youth Congress (NYC) North Central Zone.
