Of peace and unity
"Peace on Earth" and "Goodwill to all" are traditional Christmas wishes and greetings. But, as the Pope declared in his Christmas message, there is still too much blood being shed on Earth, and there is too much violence and too many conflicts.
Extra security measures have been taken in the United States -- and even in the Vatican -- because of heightened fears of terrorist strikes. Thousands of Indonesian police have been put on alert to prevent attacks against churches. While peace and goodwill remain elusive in many areas of the globe, including the birthplace of Jesus Christ in Bethlehem, Malaysia has been blessed with peace and unity. We are able to count our blessings rather than count the cost of conflict. This is the best gift of all as Christians celebrate the birth that took place more than 2,000 years ago. Christmas is truly a cause for celebration, for thanksgiving and joy for all Malaysians.
The chimes of hope and goodwill ring loud and clear throughout this country. We have shown that people of different races, cultures and religions can live together in friendship and amity. We have shown that peace is possible and that religious concordance is not a pipe dream. Regardless of race or religion, Malaysians share the joys of each and every festive and religious celebration.
In a world racked by suffering and overshadowed by war, as Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi pointed out, we need to continue to be a showcase of cultural diversity and religious tolerance. While we are free to practice our religions, we should practice them free from zealotry and prejudice against those who do not share our particular beliefs.
The glorious gift of religious harmony and national unity will not be given to us on Christmas and every other day if we merely wish for them. We must advocate them and organize for them. We must not yield to those forces which seek to remind us of the differences among us. The Christmas season of peace and goodwill among men should instead remind us of our common humanity and the virtue of comity in our national life.
-- New Straits Times, Kuala Lumpur