Christmas

me and words have never been friends-- and yet, I talk so much.

Those of you who know me understand...

Things never come out the way they are supposed to, and I am not eloquent in the slightest.

So bear with me, as I attempt to write about my feelings of Christmas this year.

This year I seem to be overwhelmed with emotion about the story of the birth of our savior.

If I'm being honest, Christmas for me is usually about shopping, buying presents, service, making cookies, spending time with family, etc... Which are all good things, but I seem to forget the true meaning of Christmas.

In the past I would get so bored during the reading of Luke 2 on Christmas Eve with my family, and just couldn't wait to go look at all of the Christmas lights and have more fun with everyone!

This year I am still loving all of the 'family-fun' and together-ness, and fabulous activities, but the story of the birth of Jesus literally brings tears to my eyes every time it has been talked about.

The Bible videos that the church has made are absolutely beautiful, and I think watching the Christmas devotional really started this all for me.

Little things like a beautiful talk done in sacrament meeting today, and little talks with our home teacher, and beautiful christmas songs keep have me thinking about what it really would have been like to have been Mary. I am so humbled when I think of their circumstances-- traveling to Bethlehem while riding a donkey at 9 months pregnant, getting there and realizing there was no place to stay, so they went to where all the animals were kept-- imagine how gross and smelly it was-- and there was no privacy to give birth there. These little things I really have never thought about- I still wouldn't say I am familiar with the details of the birth of our savior, and all of the events leading up to it. But I know in my heart that it was real, and it was beautiful. What an amazing thing it is- our savior Jesus Christ, was born in a stable and wrapped in swaddling clothes and was laid in manger. The greatest man to ever live, came to the earth in such humble beginnings. He also lived his life as being the most humble, giving, self-less man. He truly did everything for us. Because he was born, and because he died we are able to live with him again someday, and be with our families forever. What a comforting thought to have with us always. I hope I can be more humble this Christmas and really remember that Christmas is about celebrating the birth of our savior.

I have seen this picture on facebook a couple times, and heard it talked about lately-- anyone know who the artist is? I want a copy!

I need to remember that Christ is truly not only the center of our church, but the reason for this season.

I seriously have teared up almost every time a song is sung about the birth of Jesus Christ, or mention of Mary, etc... The whole nativity story is still so amazing to me. 

I am so thankful I have the Holy Ghost in my life, so that I can feel the spirit, and that I know Jesus Christ was born over 2,000 years ago. What a wonderful thing! 

Merry Christmas everyone!