 Our brave men and women who wear the cloth of our nation often spend the holidays away from the comforts of home, deployed at sea, and in harm's way. The holidays are a time to reconnect with our loved ones and to celebrate cherished family traditions. They also offer us the chance to begin new traditions with members of our military family. May we embrace this holiday season with a spirit of gratitude for those friends and family who sustain us throughout the year. Their friendship, kindness, and love are truly priceless gifts that endure and enable us to thrive. This year presented challenges and uncertainty for all of us with so much outside of our control. It's easy to feel overwhelmed. It's not just our hope, it's our prayer that you experience God's reassuring presence this holiday season and throughout the new year. God is a very present help in times of trouble. Wherever you're celebrating and whatever your tradition, may you be filled with the spirit of hope this season and throughout the new year. Merry Christmas and happy holidays.