Post by Michael Dervin OCS on Dec 11, 2009 18:42:35 GMT -4
Speech by the Prime Minister, Mr. Michael Dervin OCS, on switching on the Christmas lights, in the Town Square, November City
[/center]I am delighted once again to be with you in the Town Square here in November City, to switch on the lights of this magnificent tree.
Every year the evergreen of the Christmas tree reminds us that this is a season to celebrate life and to look forward to the many festivities that lie ahead. The same applies to the Ocian Federation, at this time of year, we pause to reflect over the last year, we look both inwards and outwards to see what changes can be made in the new year and strive to make these changes to better not only ourselves but our community. It is also a time of joy and celebration in which we celebrate our achievements, whether personal or micronational and we share this celebration in our Nation, our Community, so let us celebrate the life we have given to Ocia and our friendship and co-operation which ensures her continued survival against all odds!
It is hard to visualise a Christmas tree without also imagining presents beneath it waiting to be opened by eager children on Christmas morning.
My own childhood memories of Christmas are of a magical time with the excitement of trying to stay awake on Christmas Eve to see if you could hear Santa Claus trying to get down the chimney.
While I gather that Santa still favours this method of delivering presents, times have otherwise changed a lot since then. The transformation that we have seen in this country in recent years is really quite remarkable. All around us we can see the signs of our growing prosperity. This is never more apparent than at Christmas time when the amount that we spend on gifts seems to get greater every year.
It is only right that we should be thankful for this ongoing success, but we must make sure that this does not make us lose sight of the real meaning and spirit of Christmas.
For some families and some children, who are not as lucky as the rest of us, presents beneath the Christmas tree might be few and far between. Because, despite our growing prosperity there are still people who struggle to make ends meet.
I am delighted to see that here in November City, you are guarding the true spirit of Christmas and ensuring that those less well off will benefit from your generosity. Last year over T100,000 worth of toys were donated by November City's Giving Tree appeal. The ‘Giving Tree’ is by now a well established tradition that started here and has branched out to almost every City in Ocia. My own Office has followed suit and sets up its own Giving Tree every year in the run up to Christmas.
The real beauty of this idea is its simplicity. All you have to do is take a card from the Giving Tree, buy a gift suitable for the child named on the card and put it into the collection point at the November City's fountain. The Ocian Charities Board then arrange to distribute the toys to families in need.
Through their ongoing good work Ocian Charities Board has made a real difference to the lives of thousands of Ocian people who, for whatever reason, are unable to participate fully in the social and economic life of this country. By working with them, people in this area have shown that the Christmas spirit of giving is alive and well. You are helping to make sure that Christmas remains a magical time for all of our children.
I always enjoy coming to November City to switch on the lights on the tree. For me, it marks the real beginning of the Christmas season. I must compliment the Gospel Choir as well as the Youth Orchestra who have provided such lovely music for this occasion. Thanks also to Lord Mayor for inviting me back here today and I hope to see you all again next year!
May I wish you all a happy and joyous Christmas.
Thank you.