22 December 2008
Ottawa, Ontario
Greetings from our nation's capital.
For many Canadians, Christmas is a time to come together, embracing family and friends, celebrating faith, and sharing with those less fortunate.
For Canada, 2008 was a year of important anniversaries: we marked the founding of Québec City 400 years ago; the 250th anniversary of representative government in Nova Scotia; British Columbia's 150th birthday; and the 90th anniversary of the end of the Great War, a tragic conflict that nevertheless marked Canada's coming of age as a strong and independent country.
These historic milestones remind us of how fortunate we are to live in Canada.
As we face the difficult year ahead, always remember that ours is perhaps the most peaceful and prosperous society on earth, and we Canadians are a generous, resilient, resourceful people who have prevailed over many challenges in the course of our history.
As we count our blessings with friends and family this Christmas, I'd ask you to spare a thought and a prayer for the brave men and women serving Canada abroad who can't be at home this season. Their courage and sacrifice is a credit to all of us.
On behalf of the Government of Canada, and from my family to yours, have a Merry Christmas and best wishes for the year to come.
