PEOPLE

The Southeast Missourian asked people, if they could give a gift to the world this holiday season, what would it be?

Leslie Stevens of Benton: "To share with them the good news of Jesus Christ, as corny as that may sound. If I could say a prayer for everyone everywhere, that's enough."

Rose Roper of Fisk: "Peace. I wish for world peace and prosperity. A cure for AIDS. Everyone would work together. I wish people would just accept people for who they are."

Steven Parker of Sikeston: "Peace on earth, I guess. I wouldn't know what to say really. It's a difficult question."

Jason Criddle of Crump: "Peace and happiness. Because there is too much anger and hatred. All the shooting of each other over drugs and all those gang fights. I want the world to be better for my kids."

Linda Lawson of St. Louis: "To stop hunger and poverty. I see poverty where I live. No one's doing anything."

Larry "Santa Claus" Ratliff of Cape Girardeau: "There would be peace in the world. For all the kids to have everything they want. No hunger throughout the world. Joy spread throughout the world."