December is one of my favorite times of the year. With the smell of pine and snowflakes glittering, there is a wonderful spirit and love that is all around. This is a special Christmas for me since it is my first one married to Benj, my husband. He is in his second year of law school, and I’m the only one working. So, we try to live parsimoniously while we enjoy this festive season and our newlywed life.
This year we have made conscious efforts to focus on the true meaning of Christmas. With so much commercial hustle and bustle, sometimes it’s easy to forget what Christmas is really about. President Thomas S. Monson has said, “To catch the real meaning of the spirit of Christmas, we need only drop the last syllable, and it becomes the Spirit of Christ.” For me, and for many others, Jesus is the reason for this wonderful season!
Jesus’ life focused on teaching and serving others. He was the literal son of God, and yet, he did not expect the usual gifts and grandeur that are paid to royalty. The most important part of Christ’s life that this season reminds me of is the greatest gift the Savior has given to us—the atonement. I personally have felt the peace and healing love of the atonement in my life. I am so thankful for it. The atonement gives us assurance that we aren’t ever alone, that we can overcome any trial that we face. Indeed, the atonement gives us hope—hope for eternal life with our loved ones.
This precious gift cannot be held, touched, or wrapped with shiny wrapping paper, strings, or bows. This is a gift that is only felt in the soul and heart. President James E. Faust said, “This Christmas, and every Christmas, will be richer by sharing and enjoying gifts that cannot be held, but only felt.”
I might not have much money to buy the biggest and coolest gifts for loved ones, but the spirit of this season has humbly reminded me that the best gifts in life are the ones that we feel in our hearts from the Lord. Rather than focus on the presents we receive and give in this season, we should remember the example of our Savior. He was by no means rich by worldly standards, but he shared the most valuable gifts that last into the eternities. I hope during this wonderful Christmas season we can be mindful to share the most precious gifts: love, peace, faith, and service to everyone around us.
Wishing you all a joyous and merry Christmas!
xo,
Meleane
