The Christmas season is here once again, and all the fun, joy and celebration of the season are on full display across the Choctaw Nation. First, we need to give thanks to God for sending his only son to wash our sins away, providing the reason for this season of giving.
All the Choctaw properties within the reservation are dressed up for the holidays, as well as the Choctaw Capitol at Tvshka Homma. The Christmas lights and decorations are up in the Capitol for you to enjoy the spirit of the holidays as we present our annual Christmas in the Park drive-through lights display. Each year, the event attracts more visitors, and we could not be prouder to add to your fun with this annual holiday display. The event begins at dusk and will remain open until 10 p.m. from Dec. 1 through Dec. 31. The first three weekends will have hot chocolate on Fridays and Saturdays, so come on out, bring a warm blanket and celebrate the season with us!
For more information on the Choctaw holiday events, please check out the Choctaw Nation website at www.choctawnation.com or follow Choctaw Nation on Facebook and Instagram for more details.
I would also like to take this opportunity to thank all the tribal members who came to our lunch and dinner celebrations during the Thanksgiving holidays. Chief Batton and I look forward to meeting all of you at these events so we can share in the fellowship and good food. I would also like to thank our Choctaw associates and volunteers who prepare these meals and serve them to all our valued tribal members. It really is a special time for me, and I hope it adds to your holiday this year.
The holidays are a time for family and friends to get together to celebrate all the good tidings of the year. My family always enjoys the fun times we have celebrating the season, telling stories and creating memories each year to cherish. My hope is that everyone feels that warm Christmas spirit surrounding you with love and good times for you and your family as well.
Christmastime is also a time when the less fortunate feel a greater sense of loss. Some have a difficult time with the holidays due to loneliness, depression and poverty. I challenge you to reach out to your neighbors and give what you can, including your time. Every little bit helps when someone needs a kind word or encouragement. Think how you would feel if you felt abandoned, alone or without family during this holiday season. Make sure your family, friends and neighbors are healthy and happy during these cold winter months. It takes nothing to show concern for your fellow man, or, to put it another way, kindness costs nothing.
I hope that every person reading this has a Merry Christmas and a Wonderful New Year. Remember the reason for this wonderful season and give thanks to God for the gift of his son.
Merry Christmas, Happy New Year and Chi Pisa La Chike!