"It's the most wonderful time of the year!" You're going to hear it on the radio, see it on billboards, and hear people saying it for about the next month or so. I believe it. I believe in Christmas, and everything it stands for. I believe in the birth of the Savior and I'm ecstatic that the story of Christmas represents how the Lord uses the most unlikely people to carry out His divine plan. I love coming home when finals are done at school. I love the smell of cranberry candles and the way mom always makes sure there are some classy decorations in the tree to balance out the cheesy ones we've collected over the years. My dad always cracks me up watching those classic Christmas movies on TV, especially the Hallmark ones where we don't even have to watch the whole movie to be able to guess the plot (it's okay though, we still love you Hallmark Channel). These traditions excite me and get me looking forward to the season year after year, but let me tell you what does not do the Christmas season justice... rushing it.

The first time I ever noticed it, I was in the mall on Black Friday. It was just after 6:00am and my family and I were just there goofing off: not really looking for anything in particular but just wanted to see what all the hype was about. As the doors to JC Penny opened, I saw a woman rush in the store and was looking for a boy's graphic t-shirt. It must have been super important because when she didn't find the size she needed, she just grabbed the whole stack. You know... surely in this huge stack of little boys t-shirts, the right size must be in there somewhere. The same day, I saw a woman buy out an entire display of ladies scarves. Panicked shoppers run the mall scene, retail workers work themselves into exhaustion, and people just aren't happy. Christmas has become a chore instead of a celebration. This simply should not be.

I know what I just said was kind of a bummer, but there is good news. There is REALLY good news. I was talking about Christmases of the past. Everything I just said was about things I've seen during the Christmas season IN THE PAST. Wake up, people. It's November. Christmas 2016 hasn't happened yet. There is time to make this Christmas sweeter! It's easier than you think and I want to encourage you to go the extra mile for those who are burdened by everything expected out of them during this time of the year.

1) Smile.

Be kind to those you see in the mall, on the street, or on the road. People are stressed, but your smile may be a huge reminder to them of the sweetness of this season.

2) Sing.

For goodness sake, this is probably one of the only times of the year where singing in public to Christmas music playing over the sound system is acceptable. Make like Buddy the Elf and be all, "I'm in a store... AND I'M SINGING!!!"

3) Bake.

I don't care what it is. A pie, cookies, brownies, it doesn't matter. There is something so therapeutic about making something, and I know you're neighbors, coworkers, teachers, and friends will love some holiday "sweetness". :)

4) The most important: this is not our time of year.

No, you didn't misread that. This time of year actually has nothing to do with us. This is the time we come together and get the privilege of lifting the King high, and making sure He knows how thankful we are that He sent His son down to love, serve, and make a way for US. WHAT?! That doesn't get old.

Don't rush this season. Don't wish it away. The days are long but the years are short. This time is special, but the reason that it is, is because the Lord's goodness allowed a little tiny baby to come be the Savior and redemption that we need and long for. I am thankful for you, reader. I pray that this Christmas season is sweeter for you than it ever has been before!