Premier's 2005 Holiday Message

This is a time of joy and wonder, a time to promote peace and understanding, a time that brings family and friends together in celebration. It is a time for communities to come together, to give and to share -- a time to build the kind of respect for each other that helps us to be stronger.

It is important to remember that, for some Nova Scotians, this can also be a time of isolation and sadness. The true spirit of the season is about giving back to your loved ones, helping people in need, and giving hope to people in despair. Nova Scotians are known the world over for our warmth and generosity. We should all do our best to ensure that our caring for others is especially evident at this time of year.

Nova Scotians should also reflect on a year that has had its challenges, but has had many reasons to celebrate, to build on the spirit of optimism that pervades the province. From securing the offshore deal to winning the right to be Canada's Commonwealth Games bid city for 2014, and all the progress we've made in between, 2005 has been a year to remember.

Let us all be thankful for the warm memories of years past and enjoy the promise of the years ahead. My wife, Genesta, and I wish you and your family a safe and happy holiday season and a new year filled with happiness.