Ambassador Schieffer's Holiday Message 2007

With the approach of the holiday season, my wife Susanne and I begin to reflect on the events of the past year with gratitude for our family and friends here in Japan and back at home in the United States. We also look forward to the coming of a new year and the challenges and opportunities ahead of us, including Japan's Group of Eight presidency culminating in the 34th G-8 Summit in Toyako.

We are now in our third holiday season since arriving in Japan in April of 2005. I remember that, shortly before our departure from the United States, President Bush emphasized to me how much our relationship with Japan meant to him, the American people, and to the peace of the world. In fulfilling my duties representing the U.S. in this beautiful and prosperous country, I have often thought about how our countries have stood together as two great democracies, embracing common universal values that can - and do - make a difference in the lives of individuals and in the world as a whole.

Particularly in this holiday season, let us cherish the hope of "peace on earth, and goodwill toward all." As for our New Year's resolution, let us resolve to work together to the fullest of our efforts for a prosperous, peaceful and better world.

Season's Greetings,