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As we are beginning to enter the holiday seasons of Thanksgiving and Christmas, our thoughts tend to turn to food, gifts for everyone, more food, more gifts, more food, well, you get the idea. But, is that really how we view these two holidays? If you see the advertisements and go into any mall or shopping center, that is exactly what you will find! Most stores are already gearing up for money, money, money. Decorations are already in place and sales are being offered, just to get you to spend, spend, spend!

Do you remember your childhood? Most of us do and occasionally think back to those times. Most of us didn't have a great deal and our parents didn't make a lot of money back then either. But retailers want your money. My parents didn't spend a lot on Thanksgiving or Christmas but we all had enough. We had food on our table at Thanksgiving and leftovers for several days afterward. That's being thankful. We didn't get all the shiny, bright, expensive toys for Christmas like some kids did. But, Santa did visit our home every year. He brought joy, love, fun and a sense of family togetherness.

Every year, I go back in my mind and relive those wonderful years. That is my way of reclaiming the holidays. You don't have to spend a great deal of money to celebrate this time of year. Be thankful for what you do have, regardless of what you may have. There is always someone that is less fortunate than you are. Be happy that you have what you have. Time with family and friends is priceless. This year marks the fourth year that my parents won't be here to spend the holidays with us. They are still in my heart and mind and I will enjoy this time of year as pleasantly as before. Just knowing what they instilled in me as a child, makes the holiday season more meaningful as years go by. Yes, I have my memories, and I have a family of my own to share the holidays with. We have grandchildren, and friends that mean so much to us.

If you really want to be blessed at this time of the year, try doing something for someone else. How about that elderly neighbor that doesn't have someone to brighten their holidays? What about that single mother that worries how she is going to provide a Thanksgiving meal and Christmas for her kids? You want to reclaim the spirit of the holidays? Do something for them.

This year, just be thankful for what you have. Remember the past years and the good times you may have had. Celebrate the Savior because after all, He is the real reason for the season.

Learn more about this author, John S Willard Jr.
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