What does Christmas mean to you?

I remember those countless Christmas Eve nights sitting alone on the couch after everyone had retired to bed, and staring at the beautiful Christmas tree full of twinkling lights. It was a Christmas magic that seemed to fill my heart with love and a childlike excitement. I would sit hour after hour sometimes reflecting on my life and the year I have had. Christmas has always been my favorite holiday with so many beautiful sites, sounds, and smells. This Christmas magic transformed everything in the eyes of a child...even now I as an adult the magic is still there. This year I've asked myself this question as I sit sometimes at night by the glow of the light from my tiny tree in my room. "What does Christmas mean to me?" I came up with a few thoughts and thought I would share with you as my wonderful readers, what Christmas truly means in my eyes.

Service

I've had the opportunity to take a step back and watch as the fast paced world spun before me. People dash here and there gathering gifts, food, throwing parties, enjoying friends, and showing off the commercial side of Christmas. I enjoy the rush at times with all its luster. But as I look past the decorations, the glitter, and the  glam I see those who suffer. The broken heart of a struggling individual who at some point has lost a loved one, or seems to find themselves alone this time of year without the love of a neighbor or friend or even a family to go home to. I've seen tears of those who can't be with the ones they love. I've seen the struggling families in the community who have practically nothing. I've seen the weary, with shoulders heavy laden with burden. My heart goes out to all of them. I find I have so much love for even a stranger. I count my blessings for the things that I have in my life and I beg and plead that this year we look past the glam and glitter of Christmas and reach out to even a stranger in need. As we do so we become like the Savior, sharing our love with the people who are over looked this time of year. There is a song that I recently fell in love with called "Heaven Everywhere" In a few of the lines it states, "It's funny how it takes a holiday to show us how the world can truly change. If we all took the time to really care, there'd be a little more of Heaven everywhere."  How true that really is. I have found myself more aware of the people around me and how much I truly want to make this community I live in, as well as my neighborhood, and my home a better place to live in. Christmas is a time to help others and that is a part of the magic I have found in the service that I do, both the service that goes unseen and also the service that is visible. I truly find joy in helping all those who need a little bit of heaven in their lives...and to truly know that someone loves them.

Family

I've become more aware of the love and support of my family this past year. I always loved my family and always knew they were there in times of need, but sometimes I guess I didn't fully appreciate them like I should. I have an amazing family who in times of trial seem to stick together when times get tough. I also have amazing extended family, and people I have practically adopted as my family. It's funny how truly greatful you are for your family and how much they really do, and what they mean to you when your fears of possibly losing one come undoubtedly close. I find so much joy being around my family. We are crazy in a good way and love to have fun. This time of year is about family and finding the true joy in sharing the time you have with them because you never know when it could be your last. It has a special sort of magic that brings family closer. I pray that we sit back and enjoy the time we have to spend making memories that will last even when they are gone. 

AND FINALLY THE MOST IMPORTANT PART OF CHRISTMAS

The Gospel and our Lord and Savior

The true meaning of Christmas is the birth of our Savior Jesus Christ. Without Him we could not achieve the goal of reaching eternal life so that we can be with Him again and with our families. He did what no man could do by suffering for all of our sins, our sorrows, and our burdens. He paved the way so that we may live and enjoy the great things in this life and to grow through our trials. He is my Lord and my Redeemer. I have been so blessed to be apart of a great gospel that has propelled me through trial and affliction with faith of things I cannot see but know are true. I pray that we remember our Lord and Savior this time of year and all that He has and will give unto us as we remain faithful and trust in Him. He will guide us and in his time all things will work out. Have faith my dear brothers and sisters for the Lord loves you with a love that is beyond our knowledge. And you are truly special to Him. I pray with all my heart that you will reflected on all that has been given you and what an amazing year that is ahead of us as well. I love you all with all my heart and I am so greatful to all of you. I will stand tall as a daughter of God and I will be there in a heartbeat for anyone who needs me. So ask yourself this one question, What does Christmas mean to you? Happy Holiday's to all and to all a good night.