It has been a tough year for many people due to the cost-of-living crisis.
The past 12 months saw the return of war to Europe and two prime ministers forced to quit in disgrace. But hard times can produce examples of hope that show the best of the human spirit.
Millions of Ukrainians were forced to flee their homes following the unprovoked invasion of their country. Thousands eventually found a place to stay here in Scotland – and today in the Daily Record we tell some of their stories.
Those we spoke to have told of the warm welcome they have received and the new bonds of friendship they have formed with locals. This will be an especially difficult time of year for these families as they think of friends and relatives back home.
But it is heartening to hear individual stories of those trying to make the most of new surroundings this festive season. Many Ukrainians will enjoy two Christmases – tomorrow, and an Orthodox celebration on January 7.
Some are even planning to try a traditional Scottish Christmas lunch. They will then set about preparing a Ukrainian dish of kutia for January 7.
Even the tradition of exchanging presents on December 25 is new to many, with Ukrainians usually sharing gifts on New Year’s Day. Experiencing new cultures can be a positive experience even in such trying circumstances.
We must all hope 2023 brings peace to Ukraine and the chance for all refugees to be reunited with loved ones. And all across Scotland we hope our readers take time to enjoy the company of families and friends over this Christmas weekend.
From all at the Daily Record we wish you a very merry Christmas.
Homeless plight
Figures out yesterday showed 43,000 Scots were classified as homeless last Christmas.
Homelessness is still a huge problem in Scotland, and is an issue successive governments at Holyrood and Westminster have failed to address. The lack of affordable social and council housing is something that needs to be looked at immediately if we are to provide decent homes for all.
As many of us look forward to our Christmas dinners and receiving gifts from loved ones we should remember that many Scots are not so lucky. Many will sleep rough on street corners or sofa surf and therefore won’t get to enjoy the happiest time of the year.
Let’s keep this issue in our thoughts this festive period and do all we can to help. And let’s make sure our politicians treat this stubborn problem with a degree of urgency so nobody is without a home over Christmas.
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