Christmas arrives on Saturday. For Christians around the world, the day marks the beginning of hope throughout the land. Beginning today we have passed the day of darkness and each day brings more light into the northern hemisphere and marks that more light is coming into our lives. We can all use a change of attitude following the unsettling year we have just been through.
We began in lockdown and through easing of restrictions, we almost reached full normalcy in our lives. Students were back in school. Many Canadians returned to offices meeting up with colleagues that they may not have seen in almost 18 months.
Youth sports began again. Churches opened their doors. Arenas and stadiums filled their seats with spectators. Once again you could join friends on a summer patio and for indoor dining.
And then we suffered a setback. With the outbreak of the Omicron virus, we reversed all the gains we had made in resuming normal lives and activities.
But 2021 is ending and we will write a whole new chapter about 2022. We can be thankful that vaccinations are now being made available for everyone five and older. We can take comfort that adults are receiving a third booster shot that will help them overcome serious Omicron sickness. The government has acted swiftly, and we can look forward to resuming normal activities early in the new year.
The season brings us hope. The longer days bring the promise for renewed optimism. We can again make plans to travel to see grandchildren and relatives. We can begin making plans to travel to Europe and visit southern destinations. As we enjoy this season of hope and renewal, take time to think of all the good things that you have enjoyed this year. Each of us may discover that even through the lockdowns and quarantines, that the support of family and friends has never been more important in our lives.
Connections made through video conferences, telephone, texting have never been more important, and the sound of someone’s warm voice connecting with us has never been more valuable. Count your blessings and look to a more normal life in 2022. Best wishes for the season and I wish all good health in 2022.
Former Publisher
Fort Frances Times
