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Queen Elizabeth prepares to record her Christmas Day broadcast - Source: Reuters -
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Text of the Queen's Christmas message for
2009:
Each year that passes seems to have its own character.
Some leave us with a feeling of satisfaction, others are best
forgotten.
2009 was a difficult year for many, in particular those facing the
continuing effects of the economic downturn.
I am sure that we have all been affected by events in Afghanistan
and saddened by the casualties suffered by our forces serving
there.
Our thoughts go out to their relations and friends who have shown
immense dignity in the face of great personal loss.
But, we can be proud of the positive contribution that our
servicemen and women are making, in conjunction with our
allies.
Well over 13,000 soldiers from the United Kingdom, and across the
Commonwealth - Canada, Australia, New Zealand and Singapore - are
currently serving in Afghanistan.
The debt of gratitude owed to these young men and women, and to
their predecessors, is indeed profound.
It is 60 years since the Commonwealth was created and today, with
more than a billion of its members under the age of 25, the
organisation remains a strong and practical force for good.
Recently, I attended the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting
in Trinidad and Tobago and heard how important the Commonwealth is
to young people.
New communication technologies allow them to reach out to the wider
world and share their experiences and viewpoints.
For many, the practical assistance and networks of the Commonwealth
can give skills, lend advice and encourage enterprise.
It is inspiring to learn of some of the work being done by these
young people, who bring creativity and innovation to the challenges
they face.
It is important to keep discussing issues that concern us all -
there can be no more valuable role for our family of nations.
I have been closely associated with the Commonwealth through most
of its existence.
The personal and living bond I have enjoyed with leaders, and with
people the world over, has always been more important in promoting
our unity than symbolism alone.
The Commonwealth is not an organisation with a mission.
It is rather an opportunity for its people to work together to
achieve practical solutions to problems.
In many aspects of our lives, whether in sport, the environment,
business or culture, the Commonwealth connection remains vivid and
enriching.
It is, in lots of ways, the face of the future.
And with continuing support and dedication, I am confident that
this diverse Commonwealth of nations can strengthen the common bond
that transcends politics, religion, race and economic
circumstances.
We know that Christmas is a time for celebration and family
reunions; but it is also a time to reflect on what confronts those
less fortunate than ourselves, at home and throughout the
world.
Christians are taught to love their neighbours, having compassion
and concern, and being ready to undertake charity and voluntary
work to ease the burden of deprivation and disadvantage.
We may ourselves be confronted by a bewildering array of
difficulties and challenges, but we must never cease to work for a
better future for ourselves and for others.
I wish you all, wherever you may be, a very happy Christmas.
