I am writing this sat in one of my favourite places- a hill, near enough where I live to walk to, from which you get a good view of the city. Or at least, the city lights. I decided that, no matter what, I wanted to spend some time here this Christmas Eve- partly as it's a good place to reflect and gather my thoughts, and partly just to revel in the sheer beauty.
Whilst I'm here, I want to write my Christmas post. In previous years, this has been written quite late at night, if not very early on Christmas morning. But now I am here, and it is the perfect time to reflect.
It's Christmas. One of my absolute favourite times of the year. Why? Because it's full of love, and goodwill, and humanity. In short, because it's beautiful. At Christmas, people come together in ways they don't at any other time. People are more charitable, and think more of others. The air feels a little more full of love and happiness.
However, to talk just about the good would be to forget that there is a less pretty side. In many countries, there are wars going on, with thousands of needless deaths. There are people living in poverty, both in our country and further away. There are people with physical or mental health difficulties that make enjoying this season both difficult, and downright impossible. This is not an exhaustive list, and to dismiss any of these people would be to dismiss the idea of Christmas. I am thinking of you.
I want to use this post to talk, just like in previous years, about Christmas 1914: when the soldiers laid down their weapons, and celebrated together, no more English and German than human and human. To me, this is what Christmas is: a time not to take sides, but to remember that we are all equal, all human, all worthy. I wish this feeling could last for longer than Christmas- but to have it once a year is far better than nothing.
Part of me wants to write more, to go on and on about the beauty of this time, to try and inspire others. However, I'm not sure there's much more I can say, and from where I'm sat it feels like I have the whole world to gaze upon. So I will do that instead, revelling in this beautiful beautiful moment, the lights clear in the crisp dark air. A chance to catch my breath.
To everyone, I wish the happiest Christmas possible. More than presents, I am sending you hope, goodwill, and- most of all- love.