Editorial: Happy Christmas to one and all!

Christmas time is upon us, the season of goodwill is all around.
It’s a time for family get togethers, fun and sometimes remembering those who are no longer around with us this year, in particular those who have passed since last Christmas.
Christmas can be a wonderful time, but it can also be a lonely time for many of us.
Fortunately, it does bring out the best in most people. It’s a very special time when everyone makes the effort to do something nice for friends and family - even the gift of spending time with loved ones is something that is particularly priceless.
On a sombre note, everyone would share the view that it’s an extra special time for children, with the arrival of Santa Claus eagerly awaited in homes throughout the country. Some even say that Christmas is no longer the same for them without the arrival of Santa, recalling those tiny feet rushing to the tree in the early morning, diving in amongst the presents to see did Santa remember them.
That last sentence though will ring hollow for some children. For far too many of our children, they remain without a home of their own.
And for so many families, the arrival of Santa Claus may not be possible this year, although Santa Claus will always make the very best of what he has.
As a nation we have struggled with homelessness - and in this county we are blessed with organisations like the Good Shepherd Centre. Yet it’s gnawing away at us and it will haunt us this Christmas yet again. Over the last two years, figures have shown that 25,000 children no longer live below the poverty line - yet one in five are still growing up below that poverty line.
For thousands, hotels, hubs and provision centres will be their homes this Christmas.
If we are comfortable this Christmas, let’s be grateful.
Have a happy and peaceful Christmas.