London: The Queen, who turned 90 this year, praised Mother Teresa of Calcutta in her traditional Christmas message today.

She began by lauding British medal-winners at the Rio Olympics and those who go out of their way to save lives.

“But to be inspirational you don’t have to save lives or win medals. I often draw strength from meeting ordinary people doing extraordinary things: volunteers, carers, community organisers and good neighbours; unsung heroes whose quiet dedication makes them special,” she said.

“They are an inspiration to those who know them, and their lives frequently embody a truth expressed by Mother Teresa, from this year Saint Teresa of Calcutta.”

Quoting Mother Teresa, the Queen said: “She once said, ‘Not all of us can do great things. But we can do small things with great love’.”

In her 10-minute Christmas message, filmed in Buckingham Palace’s regency room, the Queen spoke about the theme of inspiration, talking about the achievements of Olympians and Paralympians at Rio 2016

“Having discovered abilities they scarcely knew they had, these athletes are now inspiring others,” she said.

The Queen said problems around the world – including wars and injustice – often seem too big to change.

“When people face a challenge they sometimes talk about taking a deep breath to find courage or strength. In fact, the word ‘inspire’ literally means ‘to breathe in’, she said.

“But even with the inspiration of others, it’s understandable that we sometimes think the world’s problems are so big that we can do little to help.

“On our own, we cannot end wars or wipe out injustice, but the cumulative impact of thousands of small acts of goodness can be bigger than we imagine.”

She said the 600 charities of which she is patron – many of which joined the Queen for a 90th birthday lunch in The Mall this summer – “inspire me with the work they do”.

“From giving friendship and support to our veterans, the elderly or the bereaved, to championing music and dance, providing animal welfare, or protecting our fields and forests, their selfless devotion and generosity of spirit is an example to us all,” she added.

 

She added: “The message of Christmas reminds us that inspiration is a gift to be given as well as received and that love begins small but always grows.”