Merry Christmas!

Warm Christmas greetings to all our readers!

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As we pause for Christmas this weekend, let us not forget the reason why we have this celebration - the birth of Jesus Christ.

Despite the tough times we went through during the year, it is customary for us to celebrate during Christmas and forget, at least momentarily, the troubles and all the aches and pains that we have or are going through. This relates so much to the birth of Jesus, who was sent by the Lord to save us from our sins.

More than a time to give and receive gifts, Christmas is also a time to ask forgiveness and to forgive.

To all those who I have hurt both intentionally and unintentionally, I beg your forgiveness and thank you for your patience and consideration.

To all those who were there for me in both good and bad times, thank you very much from the bottom of my heart.

Every Christmas I always wish I could do more for others, but then there is only so much we all can do. However, if each of us would just do what we can, there are greater things that can be achieved.

May the spirit of Christmas dwell upon all of us regardless of race or religion.

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While the economy and the country's political situation might not have been in very good shape for 2005, we cannot say the same for sports.

There were so many things that we achieved in 2005 and I wish that the success will continue in 2006.

This is the reason why many people still prefer turning to the sports pages ahead of the other sections of the newspaper - they want to read the good news first.

In times when a country's morale needs a lift, our athletes have done their job well many occasions. Manny Pacquiao, Bata Reyes, Django Bustamante, Jennifer Rosales, and many more top caliber athletes have lifted our spirits as a nation with their triumphs in the world scene.

Sports is like Christmas then, no matter how hard up we are, it lifts our spirits and gives us a reason to move on.

Please don't forget the underprivileged this Christmas. Your help could be the upliftment that they have longed for throughout the year and give them the hope that could someday free them from the bond that has tied them down.

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MILESTONES: A very happy birthday to my brother Nereus David, who turns 34 years old today. Belated greetings also to our youngest brother, Nino Paolo, who turned 31 years old last December 20.

Tomorrow, a good friend from my elementary days, Rommel Anthony Asuncion, who is celebrating his birthday tomorrow.

More power to all of you!