Governor Bill Anoatubby
Season’s Greetings
By Bill Anoatubby, Governor, Chickasaw Nation
Merry Christmas and warmest holiday wishes from the Chickasaw Nation!
The holiday season is a special time of year. It is a time to celebrate, to remember and be thankful. A time to appreciate those close to us, those who lift us up and show us care.
Perhaps now, more than ever, it is important to reflect on the kindness, love and compassion in our lives. We have all been working diligently to get through the challenges before us. As the flame of a candle shines brightest in the dark, so too, do the qualities of kindness, love and compassion stand out during trying times.
Throughout the extended health care challenge, we have seen so many demonstrate these qualities by helping and protecting each other. Many in our communities have gone the extra mile over the past year, and more. Their selflessness is humbling and deeply appreciated.
If we look, we can see it all around us – the connections which carry us forward. The small things we do for each other can go a long way. It is appropriate to celebrate kindness, love and compassion. Those are the very qualities that have kept us thriving and succeeding.
From grand gestures to common courtesy, from strangers to relatives, we do not have to look far to observe these qualities in action.
It has been inspiring to see so many rise to the occasion by loving and serving others. When challenge arrives, we rely on God, our family and our friends to help us through the valleys.
Christmas is the season to celebrate and share with those around us. Let us live these qualities as best we can and pray for the strength and understanding to face the future with wisdom and grace. We ask God to lead us when the opportunity comes to help our fellow man.
For all Chickasaws, along with all our families and friends, we wish you good health, peace and prosperity this holiday season. God bless you and your family always. Merry Christmas!