I suppose that I ought to write an incredibly long letter about each person that I talked with on Christmas, everything that we did, the wonderful time that we had, and all the food that I ate.
But it's easier to write it in one generalized, unspecific paragraph. So there ya go.
We had a Christmas Mission Conference on Christmas Eve, which I may have mentioned last week... I don't remember.... But it was great.
I had a cold. Which was gross. I lugged around an entire box of tissues in my purse, and had to stuff the used ones in an empty purse pocket. Don't worry. It was dignified. Because I'm a missionary. Also, one of the things that makes me feel the most self-conscious is blowing my nose in public.... So I tried to keep that to a minimum.
The conference itself was really great! President Baker put on 'Muppet Christmas Carol' movie, and we ate some good food, and there were many talented, and courageous people that performed musical numbers for our enjoyment and benefit. So we had a good time.
It was weird though because it was sunny and 80 degrees.....also, the grass is still green. But it's the spirit of Christ that makes it Christmas, and I was feelin' it.
Being able to talk with you my family (including all of you that I spoke with) Was the best Christmas present that I could have asked for!
I hope that it wasn't too demanding to pick a time for me to call, but I loved it.
Also, sorry if me crying made you uncomfortable. It's a new part of me that I'm trying to learn to embrace, but sometimes it makes people uncomfortable. So, uh..... yeah.... That happened. I was crying all over the place. What a new experience-- to go right along with the green grass and 80 degree weather I suppose.
In conclusion, and summation (which I'm hoping that word means is another form of summary---sometimes I use words that I don't know the meaning to.... I have a dictionary though and will look up the proper definition of that word when I get home, and if I'm off base y'all have permission to laugh....) Christmas was good. I don't have a cold anymore, and I learned much from people about focusing on what the true meaning of worshiping the Savior's birth is: following His example, service, love, compassion, charity, doing things of eternal value, developing meaningful relationships, and being kind to all those you meet.
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These attributes have a much greater value than material possessions, and that is what made my Christmas here special. LOVE.
I hope that we can make everyday in this new year a Merry Christmas, and I propose that it can be. If the Spirit of Christmas is feeling the love of our Savior Jesus Christ can we not feel it year round?
We can! And we should.
Now add it to yer' New Years' Resolutions, (but really stick with this one for the whole year. :)
I love you, and wish that you will each feel the joy that comes from feeling love, and loving others in this next phase of "our" lives.
Talk to you next year! ;)
Love forever,
Sister Amber Garvin
