It's hard to believe that another year is almost over. Time seems to be accelerating with every passing week.
As another year draws to a close, we eagerly anticipate the arrival of my favorite season. It's no secret that I love Christmas.
This time of year poignantly reminds us of the value of nurturing relationships with loved ones and upholding traditions that make Christmas more meaningful.
Giving is encouraged during Christmas; it's a time to show love, gratitude, and assistance to those in need.
It's an opportunity to show love, gratitude, and support to those in need.
I'm excited to share a heartwarming story as we approach this festive season. Last year, a special visitor graced our school with his presence- Santa Claus. He's returning for his second visit this year together with his, and I'd like to share his inspiring story with you today.
Santa shared his mission of helping less fortunate children during his first visit. His decision to visit our school and share his blessings with teachers and students was a testament to the spirit of giving and the power of community.
Since sharing his blessings with us in 2022, he claims to have received more blessings, so he decided to return to our school.
We saw him as a true Santa Claus. He embodied the spirit of unwavering love and the desire to spread that love by giving heartfelt gifts.
He prepared a huge feast for everyone, entertained the parents, surprised us teachers, and showered our Aeta students with gifts.
As they embraced his blessings, the school grounds were filled with love, laughter, excitement, and joy.
He also lets us play games, enjoy each other's company, and win cash prizes from him.
I now think that the excellence of loving God and others with all of our hearts is a manifestation of the blessing of having a generous heart.
I now realize that nourishing our souls with deeds of selfless love, compassion, and generosity draws us nearer to God's heart.
By freely giving ourselves to those in need, we provide them with hope and healing and build enduring, compassionate bonds. This is the true spirit of Christmas, a spirit we can all embrace and share.
Lastly, having a generous heart is a gift that can change us and the people we care about and support. By adopting a generous spirit, we can fulfill our mission of being God's hands and feet to those around us and strengthen our relationship with Him.
Giving is more important than receiving in the true spirit of Santa. Christmas becomes even more thrilling and enchanting when you comprehend this and incorporate it into your life because you will see that magic originates from within when Santa resides in your heart.
As the Savior gave, may we also offer. Self-giving is a sacred gift. We make an offering in appreciation of everything the Savior has provided.
May we all be kinder to one another and more understanding of the transgressions and flaws of others as we continue to get to know one another better within the stake. May we, like wise men, look for a bright, particular star to lead us in commemorating the birth of the Savior as the Christmas season envelops us in all its splendor. May we all travel to Bethlehem in spirit with a kind, compassionate heart as a gift to the Savior.
