At the risk of becoming (boring and) redundant, may I just say that I am amazed that it's already the first week of December? Again, where has the time gone?
We have one of our busiest weeks ever: I had my yearly physical (I'm healthy!), a dentist appt., a hair appt., Natie had a hair appt, (which involves me as the play-mate for the kiddoes), and the biggest time-sucker was our Stake Christmas fireside. I was the accompanist for the stake choir as well as another musical number -- and when you factor practice time into that, (both with the groups and on my own) it adds up to a lot of time, especially the week before the event.
But it was wonderful. The program was lovely, the spirit was strong, and the music was beautiful. I was so grateful to have been able to be as involved as I was in making beautiful music. It filled my heart and my soul and made all the work and time worth every second. I loved it.
And now we are looking at Christmas -- and if it happens like the rest of this year has, it will be here tomorrow. And there is so much to do. I feel the pressure building already. But this is when I have to remind myself of what it's really all about. It's not about finding the perfect present. In fact, it's not really about the presents at all. It's not about the lights, or the buying. It's about love. It's about sharing. It's about kindness and friendship. It's about Jesus, that baby in the manger, truly the greatest gift ever given.
Jesus was the perfect example. He was a teacher, a doer of loving deeds, and a friend. This is the example I want to follow. I want to be like Him.
And that's what I want my friends and loved ones to receive this year, along with their gift. The knowledge of that love and the remembrance and gratitude for that miraculous birth and life, so long ago.
So during these next few weeks, let's all slow down, take a few minutes and remember the reason we celebrate. It's what really matters.
6 comments:
beautiful post jan!! hope you and your family have a wonderful december!!
Well said! I hate getting wrapped up in all of the "giving" (no pun intended). It's so hard on years we will be on the road traveling and not at home for Christmas to feel the true meaning and relax and enjoy. I'm making extra effort this year...thanks for the reminder! I'm sure the music was beautiful! Miss hearing you play. xoxo
Oh Jan, I miss you! You're the best!
You are such a gift yourself Jan! I was really sad to miss the fireside...it sounds like it was a true success. I can't wait to see you tomorrow!
Beautiful music is such a key to feeling the beautiful spirit of this season, what a wonderful gift you give to provide it to those around you!
Ah, the MUSIC of Christmas. That's what I have not yet taken time to enjoy.
I'll have to look into that- a concert or something, because that's my favorite part. I have some friends who laugh because I have only two cassettes in my car, one of which is Christmas music, which I just swap back and forth when I grow tired of one.
When we get too busy, we sometimes miss the messages in those songs, and going to sit for a concert helps me focus on the messages between the cleffs.
Love you Jan, and Happy Christmas.
Post a Comment