St David’s Day message – Y Pethau Bychan

Dydd Gwyl Dewi Hapus - Happy St David’s Day!

Today we’re celebrating everything that’s great about Wales.

We’re a proud nation. Our national anthem is about passion and pride.

We’re a confident nation. We’re leading the way in digital technologies and cyber security, the creative arts and in reducing waste.

And we’re a welcoming nation.  We have a rich history of welcoming people from all over the world to live, study and work in Wales.

Anyone who has chosen to make this country their home is welcome here.

You help to make Wales the vibrant, modern and multi-cultural country we are today.

Many, many hundreds of years ago, St David spoke about compassion and love.

Today, I see this every day in the people I meet all over Wales.

In the last fortnight, I’ve met people across Wales, who have been affected by flooding in the recent storms.

But I’ve been struck by the spirit and generosity in these communities.

Among the stories of destruction, are stories of heroes.

This is the heart of Wales. This is what unites us.

St David said: “Gwnewch y pethau bychan” – “do the little things”.

In a world that can sometimes feel uncertain, it’s the small acts of kindness that make a big difference.

And they’re happening, right now, in communities all across Wales. From volunteers, to carers, to frontline staff who go that extra mile.

Let’s put this at the heart of our celebrations this St David’s Day. Let’s do the little things and spread kindness.

Wherever you are celebrating today – I wish you, and your families, a very happy St David’s Day.