A Moment with the Mayor: The Christmas season is upon us

The Christmas season is in full swing, and the days are counting down until December 25. 

For many families and friends, this will be a time to gather, share and eat. It’s also a time for us to reflect on the past year, previous Christmases, and good and not-so-good gifts, to enjoy our time together and to create traditions.

Traditions are an integral part of Christmas for many. Children are great because they thrive on traditions and things that happen again and again.

Many questions surround the Christmas season. Fresh or frozen turkey, ham or turkey (why not both?), the discussions are sometimes fruitful and sometimes silly. I encourage you to take every opportunity to connect with the ones you love. These days connecting looks a bit different than it may have in the past. 

If you have children of any age, it is great to ask them what they remember most about Christmas. Asking seniors about their best or hardest Christmas will open doors, and you may learn a lot more than you anticipated. In my family, we always went to my grandparents for some of Christmas one set of grandparents lived only a mile away, and the other set 18 miles away. I was blessed that way. My wife grew up hundreds of miles from her grandparents, so the community became her family. Our children are grown and live far from here, so we never quite know what Christmas will look like. We try to make the most of every opportunity we’re together. 

This past year, Lloydminster has welcomed many from different places around the world. We welcome you to our city and hope that you have become connected. We offer our prayers and sympathy for those who won’t have much for Christmas this year or who are grieving a loss. Supporting charities and reaching out to those in need is something that our community is known for.

I invite you to reflect on this past year's accomplishments, struggles, and highs and lows. If you’re going to be alone for Christmas, please reach out to a friend, a distant relative or a neighbour and invite them to join you to celebrate.

My wife Christine and I wish you and yours a very blessed Christmas.

Mayor Gerald S. Aalbers
City of Lloydminster