Christmas is such a beautiful time of year. So many things fill our hearts with love and lift our spirits: the melody of Christmas carols, the lights and decorations, and all the happy greetings of “Merry Christmas!” Like Christmas bells, certain words ring in my soul: “And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus,” “Joy to the World,” “Silent Night,” and from the cautionary Christmas tale of the Grinch, “Every Who down in Who-ville liked Christmas a lot. But the Grinch who lived just north of Who-ville did NOT!”

Poor Mr. Grinch had a heart that was two sizes too small and he hated everything about Christmas. However, through the course of the Dr. Seuss story, he undergoes a transformation of heart when he learns that there is more to the Christmas season than gifts and decorations. Perhaps the Grinch’s story is so memorable because, if we are honest, we all can relate to him. Who among us has not felt concern over the commercialization and, I daresay, greed of the Christmas season?! We all have felt overwhelmed by the stress of finding gifts, the pressures of party planning, and over-packed calendars. Yet, we know what the Christmas season ought to be.

We know Christmas should be a time to reflect on the birth of the Savior, cherish our loved ones, and enjoy a time of peace on Earth and goodwill towards men. However, sometimes we are so focused on the things that annoy and overwhelm us that we might say in unison with the Grinch, “Why, for fifty-three years I’ve put up with it now. I must stop this Christmas from coming! . . . But HOW?”

Like the Grinch, if we look for what is wrong with the Christmas season, we can surely find it. We can grumble and complain, becoming cold, cynical, and isolated from the joy of the season. Nevertheless, if we look for the joy in this time of year- perhaps even with the eyes of a child- our hearts will be full and our spirits invigorated.

  1. Take some time to ponder the depth of the love you have for your friends and family
  2. Keep to a budget
  3. Don’t waste time on frivolous tasks until the more important tasks are in order
  4. Rejoice in the birth of our Savior
  5. Ponder His influence in our lives today

Our heart may not grow three sizes like the Grinch’s did, but if we can learn to look past Christmas’ worldly trappings, our eyes will be opened to the miracles around us- at Christmastime and throughout the year. As the Grinch himself stated, “Maybe Christmas… doesn’t come from a store. Maybe Christmas… perhaps… means a little bit more.”

I pray that you will have a wonderful and Merry Christmas season!

If you’re like the rest of us, you’re looking for the perfect side to serve with Christmas dinner.  Cauliflower and Gorgonzola Au Gratin is a cheesy, gooey, comfort food that is sure to be a family favorite!