Christmas Message From HE the Governor, Mr Bruce Dinwiddy, CMG

Monday, December 29, 2003

The holiday season has again crept up on us, and my wife Emma and I are much looking forward to our second Cayman Christmas. As the popular Christmas song declares, "There's no place like home for the holidays," and we're delighted to have staying with us this year Emma's 87-year-old mother, our son, and also our niece, her husband and their two small boys.

Already I've noticed home-owners in West Bay raking their traditional yards and spreading new sand, as a symbol of a fresh start to the New Year. I encourage those who've not yet had the opportunity, to drive around the Island one evening. 

Many of our home-owners and business people have once again outshone themselves this year, with some marvellous Christmas lights and decorations! Emma and I have celebrated Christmas in many different countries and climates, but we know that our Christmases here in Cayman will be among our most treasured memories. 

Happily for us all, Cayman is a country where the meaning of the Christmas message is still widely understood. Across the Islands, people are taking time to remember the birth of the baby Jesus, 2000 years ago. 

One can feel the true spirit of Christmas when talking to friends, working colleagues and neighbours. And despite our diverse culture and origins, we are still blessed with a close-knit community, built on strong morals and values. I pray that that will long continue to be so! And let us all remember this Christmas the countless people, in far countries as well as close to home, who are less fortunate than ourselves.

This has been a busy and exciting year for our Islands, as we proudly celebrated 500 years of 'history, culture and beauty'. I warmly commend and thank the National Quincentennial Committee, the District Committees, the many generous sponsors, and the hundreds of volunteers, for co-operating so well together to help us all mark and remember Cayman's five hundredth birthday. 

During 2003 we've taken many important steps, leaving historical footprints in each District. With the erection of the District monuments and walls of honour, the most outstanding builders of our nation and culture have been commemorated for posterity among our communities. The Wall of History in George Town is also a superb reminder of our Islands' past and will remain an interesting and educative attraction for generations of residents and visitors alike.

The grand finale of our 500-year celebration will take place next week, when we ring in the New Year at Pageant Beach. This will be a fitting conclusion to our Quincentennial festivities, with the finest cuisine, brilliant entertainment and, I'm told, the most impressive fireworks Cayman has ever seen.

Meanwhile, I hope that as many of you as possible will enjoy a good break over the holiday, a chance to relax with your families and friends. 

Emma and I wish you all a wonderful Christmas, and a happy and prosperous New Year.

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