Coinciding peace with this Christmas in Manipur
- The People's Chronicle Editorial :: December 25, 2024 -

AS the much-anticipated Christmas season unfolds, communities around the globe prepare to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ— the Prince of Peace.

This festival, deeply rooted in tradition, has been observed for thousands of years and continues to convey a timeless message: the arrival of Cod's Son, who offers salvation and eternal life to a world burdened by sin.

Among the many verses associated with this season, one of the most quoted and poignant comes from Luke 2:14, which proclaims, “Peace on earth and goodwill toward men”, encapsulating the essence of Christmas which is about the hope for peace and the importance of goodwill among humanity.

The infant Jesus symbolises a bridge between God and mankind, representing divine favour and reconciliation.

While the concepts of ‘peace’ and ‘goodwill’ may hold deeper theological meanings, they also encourage us—on a fundamental level—to foster harmony and kindness in our daily lives, irrespective of social status, faith, caste, or creed.

As we reflect on these ideals, we recognise that the choice to embrace peace and goodwill lies within each of us, contrasting sharply with the rising tides of hatred and contempt that can so easily take hold in our hearts.

In different Christian-inhabited districts of Manipur, the festive atmosphere is palpable as households adorn their homes with colourful decorations and lights and prepare traditional delicacies for family gatherings.

However, this year’s celebrations still feel overshadowed by the turmoil that has gripped the state for the past 18 months since May 3,2023.

In fact, the ongoing conflicts have not only disrupted lives but have also eroded the foundational principles of peace and goodwill that Christmas represents.

Going by the profound expressions of hope, peace, and goodwill from state and community leaders, including chief minister N Biren Singh, various church organisations, and civil societies, one cannot overlook the deep yearning for the restoration of peace in these uncertain times.

The absence of real peace this season is evident, as many greetings and well-wishes, carried in the local newspapers, reflected a deep longing for peace and stability with the arrival of the festival.

In his message, CM Biren said that Christmas is a time for love, peace, and goodwill, highlighting the virtues of compassion, generosity, and unity.

He urged everyone to collaborate in building a society founded on mutual respect, understanding, and progress.

However, without a sincere commitment to nurturing goodwill and understanding, any grand celebrations will be meaningless.

This is also a season when the stark disparity between the haves and have-nots becomes particularly evident, which could be a reminder that true celebrations cannot happen in a fractured society.

Christmas should remind us that its significance lies not in extravagant displays, but in the love we share with one another.

As we welcome the ensuing festivities, let us pledge to foster peace and goodwill, ensuring our celebrations pay tribute to the Prince of Peace and lay the groundwork for a harmonious and prosperous New Year.

After all, the choice is entirely ours whether we embrace the spirit of Christmas or allow division to persist.

This year, let us coincide peace with Christmas, so that we transform our celebrations into a true reflection of the birth of the Prince of Peace.