Merry Christmas

It's Christmas Eve and I am overwhelmed with gratitude for so many reasons.

first, I just want to thanks my parents.  Dad gave us a Christmas thought tonight that really brought the spirit into the holiday.  We have gone through a lot as a family over the last few years and it has taught us so much.  It is amazing to see how we have grown.  Dad said the closing prayer after his thought - I am so blessed to have such a wonderful priesthood leader in my life.  And my mom.  She gives everything for us and doesn't receive half the recognition she deserves.  I wish you could all feel the Christmasy of our home because she does such an amazing job bringing the season to life.

Now, to the meaning of Christmas.  On the last day of school, right before our Christmas break, on of my students said, "Christmas is about family, friends, and Jesus's birthday."  Coming from a kid, this is pretty profound and he isn't just a typical 6th grader, he is one who has special needs.

I am so grateful for my Savior.  Here are some amazing videos that the church has recently made about Christ's birth.  You can also read the stories as they are written in the New Testament.  Either way, take the time to study out the wonderful reason we celebrate this time of year.

I have such a strong testimony in my Savior, Jesus Christ.  Ever since I was a girl, I always felt a close relationship with him.  I have no doubt in my mind that he lives.  I know that he suffered through the atonement so that we could return to live with him and our Heavenly Father again.  He made it possible for us to not only repent and be freed from sin, but he also gave us life after death.  He suffered, not only feeling the pains of our sins, but all pains. Alma 7:11-13 talks of all that he went through for me and you.  He is the only person who truly understands all that we feel, whether it be heartbreak, loneliness, or just having a bum day.  I rely on him so much and I am so grateful for the love that I feel from him and the way I have learned to love through him.  I love my Savior.  I know he lives and I know that he loves me and you.  I know that he is "my kind, wise, heavenly friend" like it says in the hymn I Know That My Redeemer Lives.  I cannot wait for the day when I will see him again.  I cannot wait for that reunion.