The Queen spoke of family in her Christmas speech. She also alluded to the terrorist attacks in London and Manchester this year. We are all shocked when we see the senseless killing of innocent people. She said: "We think of our homes as places of warmth, familiarity and love. There is a timeless simplicity to the pull of home."
Home is where the heart is. It's where our families are. Those we turn to and seek comfort from. Who give unconditionally in good times and bad. We thank our lucky stars we live in a country like New Zealand but we know at any time some act of terrorism could strike here too. Sensing this makes you move closer to those you care about. It never hurts to be reminded how fortunate we are.
Signing off one year from hosting my last talkback show before Christmas on Radio Pacific I thanked the radio audience for listening throughout the year. I wished them a happy and blessed Christmas with family and friends.
I also sent out best wishes to those in hospital, wishing them a speedy recovery. And I hoped those who had to work over Christmas, particularly emergency services, would still get to spend some happy time with family.
Finally I sent Christmas wishes to those in prison in our country. I know they listen to talkback. I reminded them that although they couldn't be with their families they would nevertheless be remembered at this special time of the year.
Driving home to New Lynn I turned on the car radio to listen to the host who followed me after my show. My message to the inmates went down like a lead balloon with some listeners. They felt particularly aggrieved that these men and women should receive any kind thought at Christmas. And definitely no prayers. I felt sorry for the host. He had difficulty trying to move the callers onto another topic.
Prisons don't have visiting hours on Christmas Day. I can understand that. It's bad enough observing family farewells at any other time of the year. Christmas I suspect would be heartbreaking.
Theo would go to Rimutaka men's prison on Christmas Day. Just for a short time but I still resented it. "Why of all days do you have to go on Christmas Day?" I would ask. "Because it's Christmas and most of the men have families." And that was it. He came home saddened but happy too.
I often think of those particular talkback callers. Some of them probably go to church on Christmas Day. Celebrate the birth of Christ. The reason for the season. The message being peace on Earth, goodwill to all.
I believe Theo's visit would have comforted the men in some small way. Gave them hope that their lives could be better. And that peace on earth starts first with peace within. I hope 2018 will be such a year for everyone.
Merepeka Raukawa-Tait is a Rotorua district councillor, Lakes District Health Board member and chairs the North Island Whanau Ora Commissioning Agency. She writes, speaks and broadcasts to thwart political correctness.
