MESSAGE OF HOPE FOR WORLD'S WOES

Taupo Times, Volume 19, Issue 98, 17 December 1970, Page 8 (Supplement)

MESSAGE OF HOPE FOR WORLD'S WOES

In a world torn with violence at almost every level, through formally or informally declared war, in rioting, anarchy, in cruel discrimination, it is difficult for thinking people to truly experience Christmas '68. Yet, through the very meaning of Christ's coming, every man, of every persuasion . . . whether "Christian" or not, can take Christmas to his heart and profit by it. For Christ personified brotherhood, abiding love, tolerance ; if Christians have gotten away somewhat through the "outward and visible signs," the ceremonials and the trappings — perhaps this is the year to come home to Christ. Whatever the rest of the world is doing, let each of us celebrate Christ's birth in our individual, personal ways.

/ Let us forget self, let us truly open our hearts, to genuinely offer friendship and brotherly love, even to those who seem least receptive.

Let us "do" for others, not just through organized charities, or group efforts. Discover the thrill of assisting some less fortunate person, someone - who may have much of this world's goods, but be impoverished otherwise. This is the Christmas to relinquish those petty grievances, and perhaps the important ones, as well. This is the Christmas to> really show those you love that you do love them, in important, little ways . . . and in large ways, too. It is so human to take care of ' the vital, "large" ways„ / and overlook the small, also vital ways ! This is the year to do something about that.