At Christmas time, TV becomes more watchable and one of the biggest reasons behind this is the effort and good spirits advertisers put into their commercials this time of year. Technology companies, such as Microsoft enjoy crafting memorable and bright advertisements. Last year Microsoft gave a message of peace on Earth in their commercial about their rivalry with Mac. This year Microsoft is focusing not just one dark spot in the year but as many as they possibly can. Their latest commercial is a retrospective of the year, a highlight of the people who brought peace and stillness in times of trouble and worry, and a demonstration of the beauty which comes through harmonious teamwork.

2016 has been a long winded year of distaste, detest, differences, and dislikes. Wouldn’t it be great if we could all spread harmony this Christmas? Well, that is exactly what the advertising team at Microsoft thought when they created this new commercial for the holiday season. According to Microsoft’s website, “This year has been challenging for many and much of what we hear in the news can be negative. We wanted to lift people up and remind them that ordinary people can make a difference. Our message focuses on the spirit of the holidays, people coming together and celebrating what is good and right with the world—what unites us, instead of what divides us.” This commercial was released last Monday on December 5th 2016.

The message of peace and harmony in this commercial is not one that was manufactured by advertising executives, but one that was born and bred in the hearts and lives of actual people. A recent article on Business Insider states “Microsoft's "Art of Harmony" campaign puts the spotlight on a group of seven real-life people —activists, artists, and entrepreneurs — many of whom have overcome adversity to stand up for what they believe in.”

The commercial is mainly about seven people and how they contributed to the creation of a digital mural, using Microsoft’s new Microsoft Surface Studio. Microsoft.com notes that amongst these seven people are Mona Haydar who “sets up a stand outside a library, and invites people to talk over doughnuts and coffee,” Bobby White “a Florida police officer...now working to build basketball courts and relationships in underserved communities,” Hawa Diallo “a refugee from West Africa who discovered her true calling as an artist...she shares her personal story through her work,” and Zianna Oliphant a nine-year-old who “fought back tears to bring her message of equality to the Charlotte City Council.” Their stories are available in video format on Microsoft’s website.

To see this new commercial click the link below, and remember to share it with your friends. It’s not much, but perhaps by spreading just a bit of hope for community this Christmas, we should all see a change for the betterment of humanity. I long and hope to see a greater sense of empathy in the hearts and minds of people. How I do long to see a world where we truly do spread harmony and live in the spirit of Christmas all year round.