Christmas

Last night was our Relief Society Christmas dinner.
It was so wonderful. It really put me in the Christmas mood.
The whole program was centered on getting to the real reason for the Season.
I loved hearing it.
This Christmas I am really trying to not to the hustle and bustle, just celebrate.
This poem was read, and I loved it, so I thought I would share it.


The Stranger
At Christmas time there was a man who looked so out of place
as people rushed about at a hurried sort of pace.
He stared at all teh Christmas lights, the tinsel everywhere
The shopping center Santa Claus with children gathered near.

The mall was packed with shoppers who were going to and fro
some with smiles and some with frowns and some too tired to go.
They rested on the benches or they hurried on their way
to fight the crowd for purchases to carry home that day.

The music from a stereo was playing loud and clear
Of Santa and snowmen and a funny nosed reindeer.
He heard the people talk about the good times on the way
Of parties, fun and food golore, and gifts exchanged that day.

"I'd like to know what's going on," the man was heard to say,
"There seems to be some sot of celebration on the way.
And would you tell me who this is all dressed in red and white?
And why are children asking HIM about a special night?"

The answer came in disbelief, "I can't believe my ears!
I can't believe you do not know that Christmas time is here.
The time when Santa comes around with gifts for girls and boys.
When they're asleep on Christmas Eve, he leaves them books and toys."

"The man you see in red and white is Santa Claus, so sly.
The children love his joyful laugh and twinkle in his eye.
His gift packed sleigh is pulled along by very small reindeer,
as he flies quickly through the air, while darting here and there."

"The children learn of Santa Claus while they are still quite small.
When Christmas comes, HE is most important one of all."

The stranger hung his head in shame, he closed his nail-pierced hand.
His body shook in disbelief, he did not understand.
A shadow crossed his stricken face, his voice was low but clear,
"After all these years, they still don't know."
And Jesus shed a tear.

I am really trying to focus on teaching my children ALL about Christmas, not just the presents under the tree. It's so hard because they are so young, and it's easier to understand about Santa, and Rudolph, and about "gifts." I don't know why it seems easier that THAT would be easier to understand rather than about the birth of Jesus, and of the gifts he gives us.

I keep telling my kids that this year is going to be different, more special. That Christmas isn't just about getting toys, but it's about love and giving.

I try to explain to them that Christmas is more special than that.

Caiden always looks up at me with his puppy dog eyes and says, "But Mom, toys ARE special!"

I guess I need to keep trying!