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Ring Out the Old, Ring in the New

This past year has been a trying one for many around the world and in the UAE. The recession may have left many unemployed and doubtful about the future. Worried parents may have had discussions about ‘the future’ late into the night, careful not to wake their peacefully sleeping children.

But as we prepare ourselves to say farewell to Year 2009, there’s hope and optimism about Year 2010. The very fact that we are in the mood to celebrate Christmas and New Year suggests we are hopeful about tomorrow, about ourselves and about the world at large. There’s indeed light at the end of the tunnel. There’s hope for all of us. With Christmas and New Year here, it’s celebration time. It’s after a long time you can hear genuine laughter, a whispered ‘I miss you’ and excited chatter. All worries are forgotten. The ‘R’ word is banished from all conversation. Gifts with pricey price tags are not chosen — the more meaningful ones are packed and taken home.

Many of us may have been through some tough times. Some may not even be with their family members and loved ones at this time of the year. Some may even have to tighten their belts. But instead of comparing today to a Christmas day in the past, why not celebrate today as a reminder that you are winner?

You may have nothing more than a hug to share with your best friend and loved ones. But don’t forget to tell them you really love and care for them. What really matters is being with loved ones and friends and family and sharing these festivities, this spirit of giving and caring.

This Christmas and New Year, let’s forget everything else and celebrate. For the worst is behind us. It’s a new day. Let’s ring out the old and ring in the new. Let’s welcome a new dawn and New Year of hope, optimism and peace. Merry Christmas everyone.