That spirit of solidarity

Today, I will undoubtedly be joining many others who write or blog on the media in praise of the fantastic feat that the team of L-Istrina managed to achieve on Boxing Day. This was indeed a show of solidarity from the whole nation to the whole nation. The astronomic sum that was collected is a clear result of how the Christmas spirit goes further than the materialistic aspect.

We have, not for the first time, shown that no difference is irreconcilable or a rift too wide- David Casa

In a world and in a society that is constantly worried by the events that are dominating the news with all the negativity and the atrocities, it is feats like this that remind us that, after all, humanity and solidarity still prevail among us. Monday’s demonstration of generosity has conveyed to us all a clear message that is the simple things in life that are the most precious and that the gift of life surpasses all gifts that one can give to one’s neighbour.

Notwithstanding the differences in political belief, colour and creed, we Maltese have shown that we still treasure the values that have sculpted the nation that we are. This was maybe the largest collective effort and I am sure that practically every single Maltese citizen has, in one way or another, contributed for this event to be a success. It is something that should make each and every one of us proud.

Monday’s event was a very appropriate one to mark the closure of the year dedicated to voluntary work and, even though the hundreds of people who work in this field rarely get a mention in the media, I am sure that the satisfaction that they take in carrying out their voluntary work surpasses all praise they can ever be given.

It was very moving to see people from all walks of life contribute to a noble cause. As the First Lady rightly said, through such activities and awareness programmes we are instilling a conscience of solidarity among the young. This is a very valuable quality and will undoubtedly contribute greatly to the formation of our children, subsequently resulting in having better citizens.

The spirit that prevailed during these last days is clear evidence that together we can achieve great things. There is force in unity and, being such a small country, we have to use this to our advantage in all aspects.

These days should not only be occasions of partying and relaxation, we should also find time to reflect and to try and be more accessible to others that maybe need our help and advice.

The fast pace that we all dance to sometimes leaves us with little time to think and, thus, we should take this opportunity to realise our faults and work on them. This is not a question of making resolutions but a matter of each one of us doing our best to make this world a better place to live in. No matter how tiny our contribution towards this goal, it is nevertheless invaluable.

We have, not for the first time, shown that no difference is irreconcilable or a rift too wide. The strength and courage shown by people who, notwithstanding their suffering and grief, made their contribution should be an example to us all, an example that we should carry with us every day, be it on our place of work or at home.

The €2.5 million plus that were collected will undoubtedly help many people but we must not forget that through our actions, perhaps a kind word or gesture, we too can help people every day.

I hope that the Christmas spirit will not fade away when we return to work after the holidays. Let us keep our social conscience alive so that, through our effort, the world will become a better place to live in.

I wish all the readers, the editor and the staff of The Times the best wishes for the festive season.

Mr Casa is a Nationalist member of the European Parliament.