2004 Holiday Message

In the holiday classic, A Christmas Carol, Charles Dickens said "Scrooge" knew how to keep the spirit of the season well.

We see shining examples of this in our province during this special holiday season and year-round.

For more than three decades, a Nova Scotian has offered a beautiful tree from their lot to send to our southern neighbours to help decorate the Boston Common. This is a heartfelt symbol of thanks to those who, 87 years ago, gave us their assistance so freely. It is an example of the true spirit of the holiday season.

Three years ago, we were able to reciprocate by offering an act of kindness that I know will never be forgotten following an equally devastating event. It was an historic occasion this December, when the president of the United States visited our province to offer thanks on behalf of his country to all those Nova Scotians who came to the aid of the thousands stranded at our airport following the horror of Sept. 11, 2001.

We can't forget during our beautiful summer months, all those who welcomed thousands of visitors from around the world to our Acadian communities for L'Année de l'Acadie. The warm welcome given by Nova Scotians is a certainty that lifetime friendships have been formed with our visitors. Of course, the hospitality offered to those tall ship crews and the thousands of well- wishers on shore also gave so many just a glimpse of the ability of the people of this province to make any visitor feel at home.

During the February blizzard and the early November storm, severe weather left thousands of homes without power. Once again, it was neighbour helping neighbour, so that no one went without food and warmth.

Ours is a world-class province with heart to match. Regardless of the situation, whether in good times or in bad, the people of Nova Scotia are always there for their neighbours, near and far.

May we always be mindful of those in need of our help. May we always remember the true meaning of the season... a season filled with light, hope and love. And, like Scrooge, may we always know how to keep the spirit of the season well.

My wife, Genesta, and I wish you all a very merry holiday season and a new year filled with peace and happiness. Enjoy the warm memories of years past and the promise of the years ahead.