海角大神

The long, emotionally exhausting ordeal of hostages held in Hamas tunnels, and the general trauma of Oct. 7, has led to a visible rise in religious belief among Jewish Israelis. As one hostage notes: 鈥淕od will always listen. He does not get tired.鈥�

Holidays can provide comfort in the darkest time of the year. But in Venezuela, where this year鈥檚 Christmas festivities began early at the behest of authoritarian leader Nicol谩s Maduro, experts say it鈥檚 a distraction.

Director Rob Reiner鈥檚 versatility spanned genres from the comedies 鈥淲hen Harry Met Sally鈥� and 鈥淭he Princess Bride鈥� to the courtroom drama 鈥淎 Few Good Men.鈥� Moviegoers may be less familiar with his ongoing support of social justice and liberal political causes.

Forget commercialism and stress. Our correspondents share their traditions to tap into the true meaning of Christmas.

Disappointment is a sour fact of life. But sometimes, as our essayist learned during one memorable childhood Christmas, not getting what you want is a gift.