I don’t know about you, but the past couple of Decembers haven’t really “felt” like Christmas to me. Maybe it was the constant stream of homework and finals or the pressure of working full-time while in school, but December has been an extremely rough month for a quite a while now.
I caught myself saying more than a few times, “It just doesn’t feel like Christmas! I need a few more weeks to get into the spirit,” or something along those lines. But things are completely different this year.
On November 1, I got so excited about putting up the Christmas tree. Karter and I made pizza, turned on some holiday music, set up the tree, and celebrated when all the lights actually worked. We spent the night decorating and it was such a happy day!
I’ve been burning ALL the Christmas candles, I sit by my tree every night, and I’m watching “A Christmas Prince” as I type this. Seriously. I sing to my favorite Christmas songs on my way to work and I found a 10 hour piano medley of Christmas classics to listen to while I write articles at LDS Living.
I’m more stressed with school than I was last year.
I’m working more hours than I was last year.
I’m taking on more freelance work than I was last year.
I’m busier than I was last year.
I haven’t bought one gift for anyone.
So why does it feel like Christmas?
Let me tell you — it’s not because we put up our tree on November 1. We do that every year. It’s not because I’m listening to unhealthy amounts of Christmas music. And it’s definitely not because I’m watching cheesy Netflix originals basically every day.
It’s because I’m closer to the Savior than I have ever been in my life. I spend eight hours a day reading and writing about the gospel. I learn new things every day and gain new insights that strengthen my testimony. His incredible sacrifice, love, and pure existence have never been more real to me.
It feels like Christmas this year because I feel especially close to Christ. He’s truly the greatest gift the world has ever been given, and I’m grateful to feel His presence a little extra during this holiday season. If you’re not feeling the Christmas spirit yet, read some conference talks. Learn more about Christ’s life and His sacrifice. Go to the temple. Doing these small things will make a huge difference and help you carry His spirit in your heart, no matter your situation this season.
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