Ours was a quiet but lovely Christmas, and whatever the decibel levels, we hope your 25th of December was a happy, joyous day. In the afternoon, your editor was indulging in a little idle YouTube surfing, when Queen Elizabeth appeared on the screen with her annual Christmas message. We thought it quite wonderful, and so we have decided to share a few lines from it, but we expect you will want to watch or read the full message.
Today's featured quote is from her brief discussion of Commonwealth meetings. She said:
In April, the Commonwealth Heads of Government met in London. My father welcomed just eight countries to the first such meeting in 1948. Now the Commonwealth includes 53 countries with 2.4 billion people, a third of the world's population.
Its strength lies in the bonds of affection it promotes, and a common desire to live in a better, more peaceful world. Even with the most deeply held differences, treating the other person with respect and as a fellow human being is always a good first step towards greater understanding.
There were two other passages that we especially wanted to share. We have changed the order, but the order is not important. Near the end of her message the Queen observed that:
The Christmas story retains its appeal since it doesn't provide theoretical explanations for the puzzles of life. Instead it's about the birth of a child and the hope that birth 2,000 years ago brought to the world.
Earlier she had said:
Through the many changes I have seen over the years, faith, family, and friendship have been not only a constant for me but a source of personal comfort and reassurance.
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Our business is trade policy, and our hope is to squeeze in one or two more thoughts on that broad topic in these last few days of this fateful year. Before we do, however, we wanted to add our own expression of thanks - yes, to Queen Elizabeth for a timely and thoughtful message - but mostly to all of you - members and readers - for your friendship and support this past year.
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