As the holiday season is upon us and the current year comes to a close, we have many blessings to be thankful for. This not only relates to the Tribe’s success but also to the joy of being able to wake up each morning and share the days with our families – which is what the holiday season is all about. It’s not about what you did or didn’t get. It’s all about the opportunity to share special days and nights of fellowship with family and friends.

It is during this time that, for a brief moment, we should set aside our differences and focus upon the meaning of Christmas and celebrate the New Year.

We all have enough to worry about, for sure. It is my sincere hope that we can set all that worry aside and just focus on the joy and happiness of this holiday season.

We all know work never ends, but the holiday season is brief. So, that is why I hope you will take time to just relish the moments. For a short while, put down your cell phone; don’t answer that email or that text message.

Just enjoy a few days with family and friends. Because come January, we’ll be right back at it again, answering all our emails and text messages and so on and so forth.

It’s been an exciting year, and there is more excitement on the horizon as everything continues to come together.

It’s also the time of year to remember those friends and family who have passed on.

This will be the second Christmas without my Dad, and although I miss having him around, I have so many happy memories that help me through those rough patches. It can be difficult at times, but family and the spirit of the holidays help us make it through.

So, remember to keep joy in your heart this holiday season. It’s the time of year for everyone to cherish the moments with friends and family. I wish you all a safe, happy, healthy holiday season and a very prosperous New Year!

Sho-naa-bish.

Tony Sanchez Jr. is President of the Seminole Tribe of Florida, Inc.