This morning I woke up in my room at the Treatment Center, I woke up wide awake. I decided to calm my busy mind by reading in the December Ensign. I read Christmas stories given by church leaders, I read inspiring stories about sweet spirits whom where born with physical and mental disabilities and have overcome their challenges. As their stories were being shared you could tell there was so much gratitude in their hearts. A story that really stood out to me was the story of George Frederic Handel. Many of us have heard his beautiful music which was composed in the 1700's. The one is is mostly known for is his beautiful work "The Messiah".
Handel faced many challenges of his own. He had a stroke at the age of 52 which left his right arm temporarily paralyzed, and his brain partially injured. Over time he overcame his diagnosis and was able to play and compose music.
After reading all these wonderful stories, my heart and my mind was full of gratitude, peace, and clarity. I started thinking about all the blessings I have in my life. I realize that despite the physical challenges I face for this brief moment in my life, the Lord has never left me. He has blessed me with so much. A knowledge that he really does exist, that he can remove any burden, pain, despair, anguish, anything that troubles us, he can take it away and fill us with peace, joy, gratitude, and love.
This holiday season has probably been one of the best ones I have had. I feel as though I have been able to understand the true meaning of Christmas. And I know that I will remember this particular Christmas in my heart for the rest of my life. The spirit of Christmas is such a beautiful thing, it is full of peace, joy, and love. I have come to have a better understanding of the word "love". When I think of "love", I think of the word "charity". This particular gift has manifested itself in my life so many times these past few months. I have felt the love and prayers of others, and my heart has been softened so much.
"Charity is the 'Pure love of Christ'. It is the opposite of criticism and judging. It is having patience with someone who has let us down. It is resisting the impulse to become offended easily. It is accepting weaknesses and shortcomings. It is accepting people as they truly are. It is looking beyond physical appearances to attributes that will not dim through time. It is resisting the impulse to categorize others.....
.... In a hundred small ways, all of you wear the mantle of charity. Life is perfect for none of us. Rather than being judgmental and critical of each other, may we have the pure love of Christ for our fellow travelers in this journey through life. May we recognize that each one is doing her best to deal with the challenges which come her way, and may we strive to do our best to help out." - President Thomas S. Monson.
I hope that everyone has a beautiful holiday this upcoming week, and to always remember that 'Spirit of Christmas'.
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