Trudeau urges Canadians to 'find strength in our differences' in annual Christmas message
The Canadian prime minister also reminded people to love other people like we love ourselves.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is sharing his annual Christmas message, where he's urging Canadians to love each other and support those who are less fortunate.
On Christmas Eve, the Canadian leader released his holiday statement with an inspirational message for people to spread kindness this time of year.
"'Tis the season to gather with friends and family, to share moments and meals with loved ones, and to give thanks for the blessings in our lives," Trudeau began in his message on Sunday. "For Christians, it's also a time to celebrate the birth of Christ and the values he embodied, values like compassion, kindness and hope. ... These values are universal."
The prime minister, who turns 52 years old on Dec. 25, added the holiday season is a time where everyone can spread "comfort, joy and light" to people who need it the most.
"So, let's 'love our neighbours as we love ourselves,' and find strength in our differences," he said. "Let's give back and extend a helping hand to those who've fallen on hard times, and let's share the warmth of the season with those who are spending the holidays alone this year."
Trudeau shared that all Canadians should strive for that mindset.
"That's not just the true spirit of Christmas," he noted. "It's also the true spirit of Canada."
He also wished people's holidays are filled with good cheer, company and hope for the new year, no matter how they choose to celebrate the season. Towards the end of his message, he extended a thank-you to members of the Canadian Armed Forces, first-responders and volunteers who are helping benefit other peoples' Christmases.
"You embody the eternal message and timeless truth that it is more blessed to give than to receive," he said.
Capping off his 2023 Christmas message, Trudeau urged people to bring this kind of warmth into 2024.
"Let's carry the spirit of the holidays into the new year, and let's find new ways to make our communities, our country and our world a brighter place for everyone in 2024," he noted.
Merry Christmas, everyone! I hope your holidays are filled with good cheer and great company. However you’re celebrating, my family and I are sending you our warmest wishes. https://t.co/Mvn2tkwVLf pic.twitter.com/plQzdyf2m1
— Justin Trudeau (@JustinTrudeau) December 24, 2023
