Yesterday, just a few days into the month of November, I was picking up a few items at a local Walmart. Stopping in the toy aisle to marvel at the myriad of choices kids have now days, I became aware of voices of young men drawing closer to the aisle where I was standing. There was a lively, rambunctiousness in their tone – but not in an obnoxious, disorderly way – rather more excited and enthusiastic.
When they turned into the aisle, there stood six strapping young men – likely high school juniors or seniors, quite possibly football players. It looked as if they were on a frenzied shopping spree for children much younger than they. In their arms they carried Play-Doh, stuffed animals, games, and a junior baseball mitt. They paused for a moment to eagerly discuss the “what else” possibilities, with one finally chiming in – “what about some paper and crayons?” With that they were off – excitedly in search of more treasures.
I don’t know if the young men were shopping for a Christmas toy drive for a school or church, what I do know, though, is they were experiencing pure joy. Joy that they were responding to a need; joy that they were able to provide Christmas smiles; joy that comes from looking beyond ourselves.
This year, when we hear the phrase “tis the season”, may we remind our hearts that we are responsible for the amount of joy the season brings. May we be aware of opportunities to look beyond ourselves – to pay for a strangers cup of coffee, to leave an exceptional tip when dining, to deliver a plate of cookies to a senior neighbor, to hum a Christmas song while shopping, to slow down long enough to enjoy Christmas lights and decorations, or to simply say Merry Christmas.
Tis the season for joy. Let us indulge.