Aid others, Bush urges nation

[sarasara]

Aid others, Bush urges nation

By Scott Lindlaw
Associated Press
December 26, 2004

WASHINGTON -- President Bush on Saturday urged Americans to help the neediest among them by volunteering to care for the sick, the elderly and the poor in a Christmas Day call for compassion.

"Christmastime reminds each of us that we have a duty to our fellow citizens, that we are called to love our neighbor just as we would like to be loved ourselves," Bush said in his weekly radio address.

"By volunteering our time and talents where they are needed most, we help heal the sick, comfort those who suffer, and bring hope to those who despair, one heart and one soul at a time."

He also assured U.S. troops overseas that they are in the thoughts and prayers of their fellow Americans.

"In Afghanistan, Iraq and elsewhere, these skilled and courageous Americans are fighting the enemies of freedom and protecting our country from danger," Bush said.

"By bringing liberty to the oppressed, our troops are helping to win the war on terror, and they are defending the freedom and security of us all," the president said. "They and their families are making many sacrifices for our nation, and for that, all Americans are deeply grateful."