The Love of a Ward Family

I was thinking about the blessings of not having ornaments on your tree. First, there is nothing to box up at the end of the holiday. Lights off tree, tree outside. Perfect! Second, there is nothing to be worried about the kids breaking. Third, we don't have to consider placing certain ornaments low for certain reaching heights and certain ornaments higher for other heights. Then last night, there came a knock and some carolers at the door.

Shae held the door wide open and I circled around and what did I see? Many, many members of my ward family looking at me. They were singing, "We wish you a Merry Chrismas." I smiled and waved. How thoughtful I thought. Then two sisters came forward with their arms loaded. One sister, Brenda, said that as a family, we as sisters share in the happy times and when things fall down. She said we heard about your great fall of 2007 and wanted to do something about it. Each of the people now singing to me, had gone to their own homes, or purchased ornaments to share with me. They explained how I had touched each of their lives and that they wanted to show their gratitude. My eyes welled up with tears (they are now too -- I'm such a sap!). I thanked them so much, and started to cry. I hugged Brenda and Lou Anne and saw all of the faces I had brought meals to, visit taught, spent time with and thought about the Christmas spirit. This is what it is all about. Giving of ourselves to others. My ward family came together to give to me. I am so totally blessed. I hope you all feel the love this Christmas season. I know I have!!