I've learned a few valuable lessons this Christmas. My heart has been softened as I've found myself learning moderation, patience and gratitude. These lessons haven't been learned by profound experiences, but by the quiet moments when the Spirit teaches me and I listen.
I wanted this Christmas to be special for Eric. I wanted to show him I can decorate and create a cozy, holiday atmosphere in our home. I wanted him to be impressed with me. I wanted the season to be about me and my talents and abilities so he would always remember our first Christmas together. But as the weeks have passed, I've had several opportunities to be humbled. Our home is very small, so there isn't a lot of room for decorations. The day after Thanksgiving I got out all of the decorations I already have and thought, "I need more and NEW decorations". So I put up a few of the things I had and as we were out and about over the next few days I looked for more decorations. I wanted everything I saw! I restrained from buying anything but my heart was set on getting new things. After all, my parent's house has tons of decorations! When we got our tree, we agreed on decorations and lights - and it's simple. I still wanted MORE. His parent's house has lots of decorations too. So why not ours?
Yesterday I was in Joann's getting some fabric. I walked around the Christmas section and almost passed out: everything was 70% off! I couldn't believe it! I wanted everything I saw, even if it wasn't my favorite, just because it was so cheap. And then it hit me: I don't have to have everything NOW. How did my mom and Eric's mom acquire all they have? Definitely not by buying everything all at once. I'm sure their decor was even simpler than what I have now (since I've acquired a few things over the years of being single...) I just need to be patient and be happy with what we have. Our home is warm and decorated enough that the Christmas spirit can be here. Even if we didn't have anything, I hope our testimonies would be enough to remind us of the season.
I'm hoping I'll remember this lesson not only for future holiday seasons, but in all aspects of my life. Moderation in all things!
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