As a mother in the go-go of Christmas preparations, I don’t have to look far to find a Grinch. Too often, when I want to feel the holiday spirit the most, I show it the least, and to those I love the best. This Christmas, try using the childhood adage of “stop, look and listen” to truly feel the joy.
Stop.
Instead of racing from store to home to school event, pause. Think to yourself, “Is this essential?” So often in our busyness we become disconnected from our gift-giving and good works. Try simplifying.
In her book “Simplify,” author Carolyn Rasmus says, “to simplify is about enhancing our ability to focus on things that really matter, to deliberately choose our priorities, and to refuse to let unimportant things take over the things of real of importance.”
To help me stop and think about what matters most this season, I’m posting on my blog a daily scripture and thought about a character trait of Jesus Christ.
Look.
I once heard a story about a beautiful town made of gold. People would slowly walk through the streets, gazing at the beauty and lingering to talk to one another. Then one day, someone discovered that by looking down at the sidewalk, they would arrive at their destination quicker. Soon, everyone was looking down and moving faster. But in the process, the beautiful town began to fade, until it no longer existed.
While you shop or visit, remember to look around you. See the beautiful deep red poinsettias, the clear twinkling Christmas tree lights, the giddy smiles on children’s faces as they point to a favorite toy. Look around you and likely you’ll feel an emotion or see a need.
A few years ago I stood in line at the post office and “looked.” I saw a tall, stooped older gentleman who stood at a side counter staring at a pile of Christmas cards and envelopes, looking very overwhelmed. Walking to him I asked if I could help. He told me his wife had just passed away and that she always did the cards. Taking a few minutes, I helped him organize and prepare the stacks. My help wasn’t anything amazing, but that sweet experience has continued to remind me to look.
To read more of Connie’s Blog Post at Motherhood Matters KSL, click here.
Looking for a more Christ centered Christmas? Enjoy my book, “40 Days with the Savior.”
Merry Christmas!
