It related to a letter sent to the newspaper by an eight-year-old girl, Virginia O’Hanlon, who had been encouraged by her papa to write to the editor and ask him if Santa Clause was real.
The editor’s response was simple: “Yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Clause”, a famous line remembered and used for more than 100 years.
But, what the Editor also went on to say, was: “He exists, as certainly as love, generosity and devotion exist”.
It is those three words, I want to focus on.
How true they are when it comes to our City and our council. We have people who genuinely love this City and love living here … we have staff who love their jobs and the work they do on behalf of the community … and who can question the generosity of our community and the not-for-profit organisations.
Selfless acts of volunteering, raising funds, hampers, Christmas toys and clothing for those families in need – generosity given and nothing asked in return.
There is no doubting the love and the generosity are borne out of devotion and commitment to our City. A city of which we are all proud.
It certainly has been a tough year on many fronts and we have shown a resilience and spirit which is in keeping with the City we really are.
So, with just 11 sleeps to go before Christmas, it’s time to take a step back from the year that was, spend time with your families and loved ones and think about the true meaning of Christmas and the holiday season.
It’s a time to reflect on and reach out to those who are dear to us, as they are always there to support us in times of need.
I extend a warm and joyous Christmas to councillors and their families, and to the executive and staff here at the council, thank you for all you do, and I hope you and your families all have a happy and holy Christmas.
And to the residents of this great City, I pray you have a safe and loving Christmas and a prosperous New Year.
KHAL ASFOUR,
Canterbury Bankstown Mayor.
