Premier Smith.

Ladies and gentlemen, I bring you joyous greetings on this special day where we stop and reflect on the birth of our Lord. On this day, we are reminded of our Creator’s love for all humankind and of the power of salvation through him.

On this day, our families gather together, to reminisce, give thanks, give gifts and express their love for each other by retelling the stories of old and reflecting on our experiences braved throughout the year.

On this day, our families are remembering the voices and faces of those who have passed, wishing they were here in person, but we are still thankful because their fond memories are in our hearts.

Today, in the spirit of love, let us remember all those who are less fortunate than ourselves. While we are here in our beautiful and relatively peaceful islands, there are those from throughout the world who suffer with poverty, disease and war.

Today, in the spirit of love, let us remember our brothers and sisters throughout the Caribbean who endured pain and devastation in myriad ways. To them, we offer our prayers.

I encourage all of us to take the time today to share the Christmas joy through a telephone call, or a visit.

There are many people among us who do not have extended families, so reach out to them today. Do not allow our busy lifestyles to erase the true meaning of Christmas.

There is no better way to express our thanks to God for the gift of his Son, than to offer our assistance to those in need. Whether it is a contribution made here in our own Territory, for those among us in need of a helping hand, or to those in need abroad, during this season of celebration and joy, giving of our time and ourselves should be our aim.

In my own reflections this Christmas Season, I am reminded this year, as every year, of the many challenges that confronts us in this Territory. I can assure you that my Government is working diligently to address them.

Ladies and gentlemen, I am reminded this year, as every year, of the many wonderful blessings that God has bestowed upon us.

God has given me personally so much to be thankful for: a loving family and dear friends.

God has blessed me by making me a member of this loving community: the Virgin Islands.

God has instilled in me the desire to serve my people – first as a doctor, now as your Premier.

And He has seen fit to inspire in me a vision for our Territory and has brought me together with the dedicated and talented members of my Government who share this vision of putting the needs of the people and our country first.

As we get ready to say goodbye to 2011 and welcome 2012, let us embrace this day as a gift of life from God, our Creator. Let us today encourage a fresh inspiration in each other. Let us show genuine support and interest in the development of each other. And, let us celebrate this Christmas, looking ahead with optimism and hope to a bright new year.

My Government, my wife Lorna, and my entire family join me in wishing all of you a safe and joyous season.

Merry Christmas to all of you!