Y'know, there's nothin' quite like Christmas. It stops a bloke and makes him look around at others. It's a season of givin', of caring, of love and of hope for all mankind. All because, over two thousan' years ago, God so loved us that he'd send his one and only son down t'live and suffer among us as a man.

I couldn't ask fer a more wonderful gift. Jesus were born t'nobodies, not to a king or lord or rich folks, no, to normal folk like you'n me. Born in a stable, as the inns were full, and attended by angels an' shepards, who would'a known that such a lowly little thing as a baby boy bein' born could give hope to the entire world.

Sadly, when I moved t'California, I lost my nativity set, but, that don't stop me from usin' my imagination. Christmas is a right wonderful time, and I wish all you folk the best of times, whether y'believe or not. I love ya, God loves ya, and, even when it don't feel like it, others love ya too.

Have yourself the merriest Christmas, no matter yer situation. Be ya surrounded by family and loved ones, or by yourself b'cause of a job or something what took you far from home, just think of all th'blessings you have, and smile. An' don't be frettin' about gifts. After all, as the reason for Christmas shows us, the best gifts in life are often free, and given of love.

Merry Christmas, from the MAD Marten, and his artist.