Refugee crisis. Pandemic. Global warming. War. Crises and negative news everywhere. And now Christmas? The story of Jesus' birth in the stable reminds us what people truly need in life: a home, a sense of belonging, freedom from pain, warmth, daily bread, human connection, affection, hope, confidence, and guidance. Far too many people lack these essential elements of our humanity.

Born a helpless child in Bethlehem, the Son of God comes into this world with its many darknesses. A new beginning. The joyful message of Christmas: There is no greater power than love. It overcomes hatred as light overcomes darkness. The child brings us the idea of ​​peace, the ideal of human rights, the vision of a just way of dealing with the treasures and wonders of our unique Earth.

Therefore, this year too, we should remember the core of the Christmas message, proclaimed by the angelic choirs in the Gospel of Luke: the desire for peace on earth: “Suddenly there appeared with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying, ‘Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.’” Let us try it again. As above, so below. As with others, so with ourselves.

I wish all patients, staff, partners, and friends of the Kiel Pain Clinic a merry, peaceful, and blessed Christmas and a happy New Year. I am grateful for the creative encounters, helpful ideas, and active and friendly support.

Warmest regards
,
Hartmut Göbel