The Forums of Glennain

Merry Christmas.

His Majesty the King had hoped to personally address his people on Christmas Day, but he finds himself unable to do so this year. For that reason, he has asked me to transmit his first annual Christmas address to you. It was originally intended that the King's address be broadcast to you via video recording on YouTube; however, due to an unfortunate technical malfunction, that will not be possible. That leaves the text of His Majesty's address to be posted in the usual fashion here in this forum, and it is now my distinct privilege and high honour to so do:




Christmas is a richly symbolic day set apart to take us beyond the everyday into the mysteries of something rare and precious. On Christmas day, we celebrate and reflect upon the birth of Jesus Christ, who declared to all mankind that the world was bound by a new law: the law of Love. It is a time when families and friends come together to share gifts and to make memories. For some of us, the winter holidays can be a trying time, particularly for those of us who endure economic hardship, or who have lost loved ones, or who endure separation from family members serving in the uniformed services abroad. For my own family, this Christmas will be marked by a degree of melancholy as a cherished relative finds himself in extremis and may not survive to see the dawn of the new year. For many, the past year has been filled with challenges, disappointments, and trials; yet the spirit of this season of lights still can manage to change moods and lift our countenances.

Much of the joy that we derive from the Christmas season comes from giving of ourselves to others. There are two charities close to my heart this year: firstly, Toys for Tots, a very heartwarming program that accepts toy donations for underprivileged children. Although toys and material gifts are not the true meaning of this holiday, it is heartbreaking to think of any child who is unable to open gifts on Christmas morning. The second is Virgin Mobile's Re-Generation program which raises money for homeless children and teens. It is my hope that those who hear my message will bear in mind these and other charities during this season and throughout the year. To share ourselves and our bounty with those who are less fortunate than ourselves is really what the Christmas season is all about.

Our nation has also had its own particular set of disappointments this year. I take great comfort, however, in seeing that you, my devoted subjects, have picked up the torch once again, and that you are committed as ever to preserving the community that we have all come to cherish. For my own part, I will continue to strive to be worthy of the great trust that my predecessors and my people have reposed in me. The vows I made upon my accession hold more true than ever, and I have not wavered in my dedication and commitment to the kingdom I so revere. This nation has observed my upbringing and I have learned so many things from the people who I now so proudly call my subjects.

I have already unwrapped the gifts you have given me: the gifts of your loyalty, of your devotion, of your true faith, of your service, and of your patriotism. I wish to return your generosity with my own gift of unwavering dedication to duty, and of my undying appreciation of your friendship.

I wish each and every one of you a happy Christmas and a blessed new year full of health, happiness, and prosperity. Wherever you are in the world, may God bless you all.