Welcome to the Municipality of Tweed!
As we move into this season of light, I find myself reflecting on how difficult it has become to rise above the negativity that seems to seep into so much of daily life. The world can feel unsettled, and it is easy to become overwhelmed. Yet even in the midst of it, goodness continues to shine through… in acts of generosity, in quiet gestures, in neighbours who show up without being asked. That is the Tweed I know, and it is the spirit I hope we carry with us into the year ahead.
This is a time of joy for many; a time of Christmas trees, candy canes, presents, eggnog, and tables filled with delicious turkey dinners and all the trimmings. A time of warm embraces, family laughter, and memories that make the heart swell. But for others, this season brings something very different.
There are those who face an empty chair at the table and the ache of loss. There are those who cannot set a table at all while others feast. Food insecurity continues to touch far too many people; including those who never imagined they would need a food bank. For many, it’s not holiday plans that keep them awake, but the worry of how to afford gas to get to work, or how to cover the next mortgage or rent payment. While some children will greet Christmas morning with joy and armfuls of gifts, others will experience a very different kind of day, wondering why Santa seemed to skip their home. And there are seniors who will spend the holiday alone, wishing for the warmth of connection.
I mention this not to dim the beauty of the season, but to remind us what it has always been about: giving, sharing, caring. There is no greater gift than knowing you have touched someone’s life simply by being present or offering a helping hand. Kindness is everywhere in Tweed. I see it each and every day. And when we choose kindness, our mood lifts, our hearts grow lighter… just like the Grinch, whose heart grew three sizes when he finally understood what Christmas truly meant.
As we celebrate, let us be grateful for what we have, mindful of those who have less, and open-hearted toward those who need us most. This is a time of year when giving feeds our souls. And if there is one thing I know about this community, it is that when we can help… we do. I am deeply grateful to be surrounded by family, friends, and a community that cares, supports, and makes your heart sing.
I close with a line from one of my favourite Christmas films, A Christmas Carol: “Let us honour Christmas in our hearts and try to keep it all the year.” And as Tiny Tim observed: “God bless us, every one.”
On behalf of Council and staff, we wish you a very Merry Christmas, a joyful holiday season, and a New Year filled with love, happiness, hope, and a bounce in every step as you embrace all that life has to offer in this great country. We wish everyone a Happy Holiday, no matter how you celebrate.
