Photo: Assyrians Without Borde

On Boxing Day the expectations were high for all the children in the village. Many had not slept in all night. Maybe it was because of all the sweets they had eaten during the day? Maybe it was because they were lying and thinking of all the things that would happen the following day? Yes, who does not remember the days when one was a child and Christmas was a time of expectations, happiness, and joy? When one would sleep extra early the day before Christmas Day just so it would come earlier! This year, Boxing Day was a particularly special day for children in Qabre Hewore.

On Boxing Day a party was arranged for the children of the village and the villages nearby. A party, rumours said, that Santa Claus himself would attend! And that is exactly what happened. No less than 600 children got to meet Santa Claus, receive a Christmas gift, and have their very own party – only for kids!

It was an unbelievably successful event and the joy knew no limits. Still today the children of the village talk about all the fun they had and everything that happened at the party. One of the priorities of Assyrians Without Borders is the children. As much of a cliché it may sound – but the children are our future. If one can make children feel remembered and loved, one can hopefully sow a seed in their hearts that their culture, history, and traditions are of great importance, and things to be proud of. A good wellbeing is the most important key to a healthy future for all children.

Thank you for making this event possible, and we hope that you smile as much as us when you look at photos from Boxing Day 2009.

Assyrians Without Borders