CHRISTMAS SENTIMENTS

Manawatu Standard, Volume LIII, Issue 14, 14 December 1932, Page 11

CHRISTMAS SENTIMENTS

SEASON OF GOODWILL Traditions which are hallowed are inseparable from the Christmas time which is at hand. It is the season of goodwill —‘‘goodwill towards men.” It is the anniversary of the Nativity, of file birth of Christianity, with all its implied sentiments and cherished ideals, and is the very cradle of reciprocal trust. There is a need in these difficult times for responsive hearts to the warm Christmas atmosphere of cordiality and mutual friendship. Faith and hope inspire charity. Let the season be one of rejoicing, of happiness, of beneficence, and of gratitude. Perhaps the little ones dream of the musical tinkling of the hells of a sleigh flying magically across the roof of the world. Perhaps they wait for an over-burdened Father Christmas to appear mysteriously after a tight squeeze down the sooty chimney. The season stimulates the imagination of the young. Their stockings are filled with expressions of love and affection. The Old World has its log fires, its heavy mantle of snow and frost, and its traditional holly. We have our sunshine, and beaches, and fields. Tempting’ displays in the shops of the city make easy the task of Christmas gift selection. The bustle and excitement of the shopping are at hand. Readily accessible beauty spots await the choice of the holiday-maker.