As the enchanting spirit of Christmas draws near, I find my heart torn between joy and concern. This sacred season, celebrating the miraculous birth of our Savior, is a time that should brim with hope and renewal. Yet, as I look around, I see the shadows of despair creeping into our communities. Our youth are grappling with overwhelming issues—self-harm has become alarmingly prevalent, and a new wave of drug addiction casts a dark cloud over their futures. Economic struggles weigh heavily on many families, further stifling their ability to experience the joy that Christmas promises. In the midst of our festivities, we must not ignore these urgent realities. Christmas beckons us to embrace the light of Christ, but it also demands that we confront the darkness that threatens to envelop our loved ones. It is a poignant reminder that, while we celebrate, we are called to beacons of hope and love. As we gather with friends and family, let us remember the teachings of Jesus and the significance of His anticipated return. “I will give peace in the land, and you shall lie down, and none will make you afraid; I will rid the land of evil beasts, and the sword will not go through your land. – Leviticus 26:6.” This Christmas, may we commit ourselves to uplift those suffering and reaffirm our dedication to fostering a community filled with compassion, understanding, and unwavering support.