Cord Byrd: “Sir Walter Scott, in his poem ``Marmion,'' said these words: Heap on more wood!--the wind is chill; But let it whistle…”

“Sir Walter Scott, in his poem ``Marmion,'' said these words: Heap on more wood!--the wind is chill; But let it whistle as it will, We'll keep our Christmas merry still. The Senate will shortly adjourn for the remainder of the year. We will return home to our families and friends and begin to think of putting up Christmas decorations and shopping for those special presents that we will give to our loved ones. We will leave much work unfinished, postponed until the new Congress convenes next January. That I regret. Continuing resolutions allow the basic work of Government to proceed, but they do not offer clear guidance to Government offices and programs, and they postpone any new starts or major changes to programs until the regular authorizing and appropriation bills are acted upon. That is unfortunate. However, we may be grateful this Christmas that we live in a nation in which changes in Government may take place in a peaceful fashion in open elections. We may also be grateful that we live in a nation in which the voice of the people can be expressed freely, eloquently, and peacefully. Vox populi, vox diae. This Christmas, we might alter our prayers for those around the world who do not enjoy these same great blessings. Christmastime is a time of peace and celebrating, as Christians do, the birth of Jesus, whose world-transforming message preached peace, tolerance, kindness, and love for all people.”