Christmas is here once again. Families have at last rested their weary feet after days of shopping sprees in the hope of beating the December 25 deadline.

The traditionally Christian festival has over the years transcended religious borders to embrace all societies from the four corners of the earth.

It is a season of cheer and shiny gift wrappers that not only brings a permanent grin to shop owners, but also to the tiny tots as well.

Christmas revellers will be on the prowl with all caution thrown to the winds and traffic police in particular will have their hands full as it tries to bring sanity on the roads.

This merry-making in most cases tends to put a shroud on the true meaning of Christmas: "Peace on earth and goodwill to men”. This has been the seasonal message for ages and has a special meaning to our country.

"Peace” in Rwanda is not seasonal but a permanent reality that we should be proud of. This has been achieved through hard work and sacrifice and the onus is upon us to uphold it.

The Christmas season should be a time of thanksgiving for having triumphed over a calamity and managing to build a unified and peaceful society.

It also should act as a reminder that "goodwill” to one’s neighbour is a necessary ingredient without which the peace we enjoy would be standing on shaky ground.

Forging a country from the ashes of Genocide was no mean feat, but we succeeded. What remains now is building stronger institutions that will be our watchtowers; institutions that will guide us to greater heights in economic and social development.

So, as you sit down to make merry with your family and friends, remember to show some kindness to widows and orphans who are also in need of Christmas cheer.

Merry Christmas to all our esteemed readers.

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