President George Vella said that elderly people should not be abandoned. “Give them a call, send them a message, a small present,” he said in his Christmas message.
He was making a reference to the fact that it will be a lonelier Christmas for some people, given the restrictions that are in place because of the virus pandemic.
“They may be isolated, but they are not forgotten,” he said.
Vella said this year’s Christmas is different from what we are accustomed to because of the pandemic that has caused havoc in our way of life. This however should not reduce the Christmas spirit, and Christmas is not necessarily felt in groups.
He had words of comfort for people who have lost a loved one to the pandemic. He also mentioned sick people for whom Christmas will not bring joy. “Let us use these days to spread courage to whoever is recovering in a hospital,” he said, thanking all those who work with the sick.
Vella said activities related to the presidency had to be contained all throughout the year. This had an effect on the funds that were collected, he said, urging the Maltese to contribute as much as they can during the Strina event on Saturday – but not only then.
Vella however acknowledged that 2020 was not a good year for many because of the pandemic, which affected their jobs and livelihood. “I am sorry that I am being negative in my Christmas message but this is the reality we are living,” he said.
He said that he wanted to pass on the message that the Maltese people should realise their strengths and, if we use these properly, we will make our lives better.
He said he wanted to convey a message of hope that we will overcome these difficult moments, adding that the advent of the Covid-19 vaccine is good news that a new chapter is beginning.