When we think about Christmas, we all have our different perspectives on what it really means to us individually. For many its mainly an opportunity to share some valued time with the family and reflect on a busy year gone by. This experience is enhanced by the kindness we show to each other, often represented by the giving of presents. Although frequently over commercialized, the essential message is still there, that we show kindness and compassion to each other by the giving of treasured gifts and time. When I reflect on the Icarus team, I see this spirit in abundance. All of the members of the Icarus team are giving up their personal time dedicated to the vision of interstellar flight. They each do this for a variety of reasons, but for most it is a combination of shared interest and the knowledge that humankind must think long term. This may be because of the risk of asteroid strikes, global conflict, natural disasters, over population and lack of resources or merely the knowledge that someday our Sun will have exhausted its energy. For members of the public watching on, it may appear the Icarus team are just a bunch of people having a lot of fun in the pursuit of an unusual hobby. Whilst partly true, its also true that we all share a common bond, to work towards a peaceful and productive future for humankind on Earth and in Space. The dedication of the team working towards the 100 Year Starship Study grant in 2011 certainly required a lot of time and energy for many of us. We did that because we recognized its importance, not just to us individually but for our entire species. It was a moment of opportunity that had to be grabbed whilst it was there, provided by DARPA. An opportunity like this may not come again for many years and now was the time to raise our game and seize the day. – Carpe diem. The team responded magnificently to the challenge that was set before them. Many Icarii spend many of their hours working volunteer into the late hours, working towards a point in the future when we can clearly see before us a blue print for a real Starship and imagination can finally translate to reality. At Christmas time in particular, I can’t think of a better gift for the members of Icarus to give to humanity than their personal time and energy to make the dream of starflight happen, someday. This is human kindness at the deepest level. Happy Christmas World, let’s keep giving to make our dreams come true. Kelvin F .Long Vice President (Europe) Icarus Interstellar