The Birth of Christ

Today for my lesson in YW's, I read a talk by Jeffrey R. Holland. It's one of my fav talks for Christmas time. He talks about the story of the Grinch, and how the Grinch realizes that "maybe Christmas doesn't come from a store, maybe Christmas, perhaps, means a little bit more." Which is always a good reminder during the hustle and bustle of the season. But, the talk is so great at making you think about the nativity, in a way that I hadn't before.
He talks about Joseph, and how he must have felt, with Mary being ready to have a baby, but there was no where for them to stay. Then, how he must have felt having to have the baby in a stable, how he must have tried to find the most clean straw, and perhaps held the animals back. Knowing that he was going to be the "foster" father of the Son of God. He would be responsible for teaching Jesus.
He talks about Mary, and her strength and courage. (I can't imagine riding a donkey 100 miles when I'm 9 months pregnant!) In Luke 2:7, it says, "And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger..." Elder Holland talks about how she did it all, there weren't nurses, or midwives, or even her mother there. SHE had the baby, then SHE wrapped him up and laid him down. It wasn't until later that the shepherd's came, and even later with the wise men. I've been thinking about it today and thought how when Jesus was born, it was Mary, Joseph and the animals. I wonder if it was such a sacred event, that it wasn't meant for anyone else to be there, just them, and the silent animals. I don't know, it's just speculation. Anyway, I love pondering the birth and all the blessings it has brought into my life.
In church today, our bishop talked about how when we think about Christ more, then we start to act like him more. I think that's what helps make this season merry and bright. Sure, there are freaks who push people around in stores, trying to get the perfect gift, but overall, I think people are more giving, loving and caring for others during Christmas time. It's fitting that Thanksgiving is a month before Christmas. At Thanksgiving, I feel so much gratitude for the things I have and just overly blessed. Then it's Christmas time and I want to try to bless the lives of those in need. (Well, I try anyway!)
I feel like I'm just rambling now. I just hope that we all can keep Christ in our minds, because He wears off on us, and that's great! Merry Christmas!!