Pamela Cruz. Peninsula 360 Press [P360P].
After a difficult year in many respects, U.S. President-elect Joe Biden and his wife Jill Biden gave their first Christmas address as a presidential family, in which they addressed all citizens of the country, with hope as a central theme.
"Merry Christmas and happy holidays!" was the first thing the president-elect said during the video message, which lasts two minutes and four seconds.
"Jill and I wish you and your family peace, joy, health and happiness this season. But we know that for many of you in our nation this has been a very difficult year. And in this season of hope we are reminded of our common humanity and what we are called to do for one another," said Democrat Joe Biden.
He added that many are struggling to find work, literally put food on the table and pay the rent or mortgage. "We are reminded that we are on this Earth to take care of each other, give what we can and be a source of help and hope to friends and strangers alike."
The nation's next first lady, Jill Biden, recalled that many families face their first Christmas after losing a loved one. "Joe and I know that pain. And we know how, in times of grief, a kind word can mean so much," she said.
He added that this is also a season of gratitude, so he thanked the frontline and essential workers who have put their lives on the line for everyone, and for the scientists and researchers who worked to deliver vaccines.
He also stressed that his thoughts are with the military service members who are away from home and on the loved ones who miss them. "Our family knows your sacrifice and our hearts go out to you."
Joe Biden recalled that, normally, they receive 20 to 25 people for dinner on Christmas Eve, but not this year, because due to the COVID-19 pandemic, millions of families have had to remain separated to avoid contracting the virus.
"We're going to miss our family, but it's what we have to do to keep our family safe. We hope this year you will consider limiting travel and the size of family gatherings," he noted.
In this regard, Jill said that "although our celebrations are dimmed, we know that this will not last forever, and brighter days will come soon".
"On this holy day, we remember that love and joy can be shared across the farthest distances. We celebrate apart, but not alone, and look forward to next year, when we can come together with a renewed appreciation for the people and traditions we love," he concluded.
