Today, people all over the world celebrate Christmas, a holiday which marks the birth of Jesus Christ, one of the greatest philosophers who ever lived. This was a man who lived two thousand years ago, taught timeless lessons about kindness, mercy, forgiveness, on doing one’s duty, on the dangers of money and the redemptive power of poverty.

What I love is that there is much to be learned from Jesus teachings whether you’re a believer or an atheist.

“Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself.” Jesus

“If someone strikes you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also.” Jesus

“And why do you look at the speck in your brother’s eye, but do not consider the plank in your own eye?” Jesus

“Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and decay destroy, and thieves break in and steal…No one can serve two masters. He will either hate one and love the other, or be devoted to one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and mammon.” Jesus

So today, remember to give thanks for everything around you, everyone around you, and for the teachers who have honoured us all.

-Brian Nadon