‘You are not alone’, says Queen Elizabeth in her Christmas speech

Wishing everyone a Happy Christmas, Queen Elizabeth II of the United Kingdom reassured people struggling without friends and family this year that they “are not alone”, reports BBC.

The 94-year-old said due to the pandemic, many of “us were away from their families on this festival, it has “brought us closer” despite causing hardship. She said, “What many people want “for Christmas is a simple hug or a squeeze of the hand but even on the darkest nights there is hope in the new dawn.”

The Queen and her husband Prince Philip are spending the day apart from their family.

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In her message, she said, the pandemic has given a hope and people across the world have risen magnificently to the challenges. The British monarch added that she was proud and moved by people’s spirit.

Assuring people, she said this year people lost their loved ones and “of course for many, this time of year will be tinged with sadness” and while others might be away from their families for safety, “when all they really want for Christmas is a simple hug or a squeeze of the hand. If you are among them, you are not alone, and let me assure you of my thoughts and prayers.”

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She thanked frontline workers, and to “good Samaritans [who] have emerged across society, showing care and respect for all”.

The Queen said just like stars guided people to the witness birth of Jesus let the light of the festival, the love and hope, guide everyone in the times ahead.