This is the time of year when many celebrate the birth of Christos, but what have we learned from the promise of peace on Earth, goodwill to men?

Not much.

Our country is beset by stifling negativity, violence, and incivility. Leaders are caught up in vicious attacks on one another in pursuit of power.

Maybe we should elect 5-year-olds. They are better behaved.

In the Holy Land, a truly ungodly war rages, claiming the lives of so many. Over what? Differences in religions, customs, race, land.

By a miraculous convergence, life was given to this beautiful blue ball we all live on.

Yet we seem bent on its destruction.

Are we not capable of doing better?

It is surely within our ability.

The guiding mantra was given to us long ago. Peace on Earth, goodwill to men.

MIKE STENTOUMIS,

Ossineke