In a multicultural city like Toronto, the notion of highlighting one holiday celebration over another makes little sense. But, the sentiment of 'Peace on earth; good will toward men' rings true regardless of faith or creed.
For Christians this sentiment speaks to the origins of the season when they celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. It captures the seemingly fleeting ideal that all of humanity has strived for but has failed to grasp. It's a notion the world as a whole should embrace; one free of all religious implications, or associations, and seen as seven simple but very important words. By the time you receive this paper, Christmas, for most, has come and gone and your Boxing Day shopping just beginning. Over the next week as you run around looking for the next best deal, patience may be low, tempers high, and rudeness abounding. But, the goal we should all embrace is peace on earth and good will is paramount these days, perhaps more than ever before.2009 was a difficult year for many Torontonians and for millions around the world. And despite hardships, so many in our communities came together to help one another through these difficult times. But, before we ring in 2010 this coming Thursday night, we, along with all of our politicians, should reflect on what has come, where we have been, and most importantly where we hope to be in the future.In what seems to be a unanimous custom, each year we all take stock of our lives, but this year we ask everyone to do so with open eyes to the rest of our communities and the rest of our global family.The economy seems to be rounding the corner, but is tempered with people still seeking jobs after being laid off in 2009. Toronto food banks and those across the country have seen a dramatic increase in their users, highlighting how difficult the lives of so many have become.A new year lies ahead, with new possibilities and a new leaf to turn.In 2010, think about your neighbour who may have lost his or her job. Think about the local social service agency that has seen donations drop dramatically while the need for their services has grown. Think about all the new Canadians who are having difficultly settling into their news lives in this wonderful city and country. Think of all our soldiers in Afghanistan currently serving and those who have died, and their families.While taking stock, our communal resolution should be one that promotes peace and good will toward everyone at every moment. In the end, we are responsible for how we act. We cannot change the world, but by our actions we can change our own personal world and the worlds of those who we see on a regular basis.Hopefully, 2010 will herald Peace on Earth and good will toward everyone.