THE TRUE SPIRIT OF CHRISTMAS

I asked my youngest grandchildren what gift they would be giving Jesus for His birthday. I explained that this special gift is not one purchased in a store; rather, it's one given from the heart that would change the world. I was touched in the level of their compassion and by each response. Below, I have compiled their gifts into the poem, "The True Spirit of Christmas" with a special thanks, love and appreciation to Alec, Mya, Karlie, Celine, Travler, Livia, Sariah, Savanna, Trigo and Jabez for their beautiful inspiration.

             The True Spirit of Christmas

As children we believe that the loveliest sight to see

Are presents wrapped and underneath a decorated tree

But the gift that means the most is not tied up in a bow 

It's the time and love that's given to mend a broken soul

When all of God's children stretch forth a loving hand

That is when the lion will lie down - next to the lamb

And we will create the miracles to end all human strife 

With no more wars of hatred to take a precious life

Someday we'll live together in peace and harmony

And every child on earth will have the privilege to be free

Those families torn apart by selfishness and greed

Will have a change of heart in what they feel they need

The true spirit of Christmas is not underneath the tree 

Its in the hearts of the children that belong to you and me

And in the hand of homelessness, regardless of their race

Its in the eyes of the elderly and the newborn baby's face

Its in the sorrow of a mother who can't wipe away her tears

And in the struggle of our youth to overcome their fears

Its in the pain of a father who has nothing left to give

And the soldier on the battlefield who really wants to live

When kindness replaces the idleness we know

Our actions will allow us to reap that which we sow

There will be no darkness, for the light is what we seek

And the earth will be transformed by the very words we speak

No one will have more, and no one will have less

For every knee shall bow and every tongue confess

That He is the Messiah, the strait and narrow way

And the door to our salvation upon the Judgement Day

The true spirit of Christmas isn't wrapped in fancy bows...

It's the time and love that's given to mend the broken souls 

All rights reserved for "The True Spirit of Christmas" and copyright pending by Linda Sumner Urza 

Alec, age 12: "My gift would be to give service. By giving, we receive the best blessings of all and help create a better world.  Service makes everyone feel good."

Mya, age 10: "I would give peace as my gift. I don't want anyone to be afraid. I don't like to be afraid and I believe that no one in the world should ever be scared. I want peace to rule the world. " 

Travler, age 10: "My gift for Jesus is love. Love can change war into peace. Someday, I want to be a soldier to protect our country and people, so no one gets hurt and they're not afraid to live here." 

Celine, age 8: "My gift would be to write a letter to Jesus and tell him how much I love Him. I will give more. There are lots of hungry people who don't have homes and that's not a good thing. Everyone should share, so no one is sad or left out." 

Jabez, age 3: "I would give Him a kiss!"

Karlie, age 10: "My gift will be to donate more. If everyone shares, then the world will be happier, people will be nicer to each other, and no one will be left out. When we all give, we feel good. If people don't want to share, then they should go without for a while and see how it feels not to have anything."

Livia, age 6: "I would give to "everyone" for my gift.  I want everyone to have food, then no one will ever be hungry. I want nice people to live here on earth, but no more mean ones." 

Sariah, age 8: "My gift is hope. Hope for more jobs for people who don't have any. I think hope would be a good gift for everyone. Hope will make a better world and help us take care of the world we have."

Savanna, age 6: "I would give my love for Him." 

Trigo, age 6: "My gift will be to be a good friend. I don't think Jesus will be happy to know that people are not nice or hurt anyone. So, I am going to be a nicer friend and a better friend. When you are nice everyone is happy.


Out of the mouths of babes... we cannot in good conscience allow our children to inherit the world as we know it, not on our watch, for we are greater than this. May we change everything that is humanly possible in this world to create a Heavenly outcome... and let us begin today. All rights by Linda Sumner Urza for One fine day

THE CHRISTMAS PRAYER

A young boy was staring at a beautiful Christmas tree displayed in the department store window. His clothes were tattered and torn, his shoes were too small for his feet, and his ragged tee shirt was hardly enough to keep him warm from the winter's chill. It was shivering cold, yet he seemed transfixed on the twinkling lights in the department store window.  

A businessman who happened to be passing by, noticed the child standing alone and felt compelled to stop. He reached in his pocket to give him his spare change, but in his heart he knew that was not sufficient for the boy's needs. Then he saw his reflection in the window, it was towering over the young lad and he felt inspired to a new depth of compassion.  

“That's a beautiful Christmas tree they have there.  I would be willing to bet there's a gift or two underneath that tree for you!” He said to the young lad.

The boy looked up at the man without saying a word, and then with a somber face, he looked back to the lights flickering on the tree.  The man took the young boy by the hand and together they walked into the department store.  They picked out a warm coat, a package of socks, a pair of shoes and snow boots. The child's eyes sparkled when he tried on his boots for the first time and he beamed with pride as he zipped his new parka up around his neck.

When they walked out of the store together, the boy looked up into the man's face.

"Are you Jesus?"  The young lad said in awe. 

The man's heart sunk deep into his chest when he heard the boy's words.  He knelt down beside him and responded to this unusual question. 

"No, I am not Jesus," he said with a tender reply. 

"Are you sure? Cause I was praying for Jesus to come down and you showed up! It's okay to tell me, I won't tell anyone." 

The man was overcome with humility; he had been mistaken for others over the years, but never for the Son of God.  He could hardly gather the right words to speak.

"I am not Jesus," he went on to say,  "but I follow Him and He sent me to answer your prayers." 

The young boy wrapped his arms around the stranger's neck and gave him a warm hug, "I bet you're his brother," he said with a twinkle in his eye.          

"Yes," the man said, "I am His brother."  

"I knew it," said the lad,  "I could tell that you were somebody really special."

They waved goodbye to each other and parted in opposite directions.  The man thought about this magnificent experience.  He shuttered to think that he would have missed a beautiful opportunity, if he'd only given the boy the small amount of change in the bottom of his pocket. Instead, he reached deep within his heart and remembered the true identity of his divine worth.  All rights reserved, Written by Linda Sumner Urza for One fine day

May we never be over shadowed by the world or forget the true significance of our divine worth.  During this Christmas season, let us all remember to reach beyond the small change, to make an even greater change in the world around us.  Merry Christmas and much love, Linda

SECRET SANTA GIVES AWAY $100 BILLS

I was listening to KLove radio station this afternoon and I heard a wonderful story of charity that touched my heart. In Reading, Pennsylvania last night, a Secret Santa gave away $100 bills to unsuspecting residents of the city. Every now and then there comes along a wonderful story, but this kind of charity is exceptionally rare. It was reported that the Santa handed out $20,000 to residents of the poorest district in this Pennsylvania town. 

The gracious donor had read somewhere that Reading, Pa was designated as America's poorest city with a population of 65,000 plus. Santa wanted to make a difference and he stayed for several hours to bless the lives of those who lived in this community. This Santa, who wishes to remain anonymous, arrived at a bus terminal in Reading and started handing out $100 bills - one right after another!  One resident told the local paper, "I was brought up to believe that you take care of your family... but I can't find a job!" When he was approached by the Secret Santa, he wept as he received the generous offering. Then he said, Santa patted him on the shoulder and told him, "You're a good man!" 

Santa is a wealthy businessman who got this wonderful tradition from a friend who had passed away a few years ago. He will be traveling to other cities in the next few weeks to spread an abundance of faith, hope and charity to those who may be suffering in this fallen economy.  

Through a generous example of charity, one man has certainly lifted the burdens of many.  He is the true meaning of the spirit of Christmas, for in Matthew 25: 37-40 it is written, "In as much as ye have done it unto the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me."Written by Linda Sumner Urza, One fine day.

THE GREAT I AM

We heard the story first before the world was created. Heavenly Father told us of His plan of happiness to all of His beloved children. Out of love, He would let us come down from the royal courts on high, to live in a world where we would be free to choose from good and evil, and of our own desire to live with Him again. Because of temptations, Father knew that it would be difficult for us; we would need power beyond that of our own spiritual strength in order to be rescued from death and sin. Our Father provided a Savior to lead us back into His presence.

Jehovah, out of His great love for Heavenly Father and for us, volunteered to come down from an exalted place to sacrifices His life, for ours. Jesus would face tremendous trials and difficulties while in His mission upon the earth, yet through Him, a way was provided for us to return to our heavenly home. We are able to call upon the powers of heaven through our faith in His example, teachings and the commandments. At the very heart of the commandments is the tremendous love the Father and of His Son.

Upon receiving this information in the pre existence, our hearts were filled with joy at the anticipation of coming to earth. Our Father and His Son had prepared a way for our journey in the everlasting gospel and we rejoiced in this opportunity to prove ourselves worthy.

During the month of December, my blogs will be dedicated to the true meaning of Christmas. Please share these stories with your children, friends and loved ones, that we may all come together as one to spread His light and celebrate His glory.

Many have since told the story of the sacred birth in Bethlehem; a Christ child born in a manger and sent from above to rescue the fall of mankind. Of all the inspired accounts, this ones we treasure the most, for it allows us to feel the tender love and care of the Father and His Beloved Son. In chapter Luke of the bible, there is a beautiful account of the birth of Jesus. Each detail of this story renews our faith that Heavenly Father has prepared the way for all His children to reenter into His presence, for Jesus is the pathway home from a weary journey. Written by Linda Sumner Urza, One fine day

The Bible Christmas Story

Luke Chapter 2, King James Version

Luke 2 in the New Testament is the sacred account of the birth of Jesus Christ. 

And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus, that all the world should be taxed. (And this taxing was first made when Cyrenius was governor of Syria.) And all went to be taxed, every one into his own city. And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judaea, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; (because he was of the house and lineage of David:) To be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child.

And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered. And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn.

And there were in the same country shepherd abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid. And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly hosts praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.

And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us. And they came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger. And when they had seen it, they made known abroad the saying which was told them concerning this child.

And all they that heard it wondered at those things which were told them by the shepherds. But Mary kept all these things, and pondered them in her heart. And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told unto them.

WHEN WILL I START TO DIE?

Many years ago, a lady worked as a transfusion volunteer at Stanford Hospital. She became aquatinted with a little girl named Liza who was suffering from a rare disease and needed a blood transfusion.  She had a five-year-old brother who was a perfect candidate for the procedure, for he had miraculously survived the same disease and had developed the antibodies needed to combat the life threatening illness. 

The doctor explained the situation to her  parents and asked the boy if he would be willing to give his blood to his sister. The boy hesitated only for a moment before taking a deep breath and saying, "Yes, I'll do it if it will save Liza."

As the transfusion progressed, he lay in bed next to his sister and smiled. Everyone was happy to see the color returning to the little girls cheeks, but his face grew pale and his smile faded. He looked up at the doctor with a concerned look upon his face and he asked, "When will I start to die?"  Surprised by the little boys response, the doctor replied with tenderness. "You're not going to die and neither is your sister!  You are both going to live, because you were courageous enough to share your valuable life with her."  

Being young, the boy had misunderstood the doctor.  He thought he was going to have to give her all his blood in order for his sister to regain her health. He was willing to give up his life so she could continue on with hers.  Fortunately that was not necessary, but in his innocent heart he was willing to pay the ultimate sacrifice. I have thought of this story many times and I too, have a personal connection to this level of sacrifice.  

My mother was in the second trimester of a very difficult pregnancy. The doctor informed her that in order to save her own life, it was imperative to abort the life of her unborn child.  My mother looked squarely into the doctor's face and said, "Over my dead body, I would never allow anything to harm this baby!" 

Through the stressful months ahead, she remained completely devoted to the life and well being of her baby.  As complications worsened, the doctor determined that she would not live through the delivery and again, advised her to terminate the pregnancy.  My mother refused and continued on, putting her child's life above her own. I often wondered if there were nights when she lay awake wondering, "When will I start to die." 

This was the risk she was willing to take to give life to her unborn child! Although she continued to threaten miscarriage, she did not waver.  After nine long months my mother delivered a healthy baby girl... and that child was me! I am humbled in knowing that my mother was willing to sacrifice her own life to protect mine. After all...  that is the ultimate gift.  Written by Linda Sumner Urza, One fine day

11/11/11 VETERANS DAY TRIBUTE

Today, I went to a first grade program at Laura Welch Bush Elementary in Austin, Texas. My granddaughter was in a patriotic program honoring Veterans Day. I was impressed by the patriotism of the six year old students when the American flag entered the room, carried by representatives of the Boy Scouts, and placed in the flag stand. All hands were on their hearts and the children stood united as they recited the Pledge of Allegiance. 

Those who had served in the armed forces who were sitting in the audience were asked to stand. I looked around the room and I could see the different generations represented; there were soldiers in their twenties and those in their late sixties. Then the first graders sang tribute songs honoring the different military divisions. It was very touching to see their sparkling faces and to see the strong soldiers standing proud before a room filled with tiny voices.  

There was a man in his sixties standing across from where I was seated and I noticed the tears in his eyes. Perhaps he had fought in Vietnam, I thought to myself. He was a man who had obviously experienced the repercussions of war, for I could see it in his posture and upon his face. Perhaps at some point he had stood face to face with death and not wavering, I wondered. Yet as the little children sang out, this man and others in the room were emotionally caught up in a beautiful experience. Again, I was proud to be an American and live in a wonderful country where "real heros" stand tall among the masses. 

Unfortunately, there are some people who will never understand the price of freedom until it's lost, but for those who do, we hold American soldiers in the highest esteem. The world is in need of honorable men and women; those who are willing to protect the rights and privileges of others who would be defenseless against the perils of evil. This country would not be safe without the courage, honor and loyalty of the soldiers who defend it. They are those who are willing to give everything for what they believe!  I truly stand in awe. 

This entry today is dedicated to the many soldiers who watch over a great nation and wherever you may be, "Have an amazing day today and everyday thereafter, knowing that you indeed make a difference in the lives of the American people." 

I am so thankful for freedom. I know that many have paid a tremendous price for me to enjoy each breath that I take, the sunrise just beyond the horizon, and an equal opportunity for life itself. I am grateful that someone is more brave than I and that they valiantly go before and prepare the safe passage for me and my family. I am eternally grateful! 

11/11/11 at 11:00 a.m. millions of Americans were standing proud in honor of all those who sacrifice to protect, defend, and sustain the people of this great country. We are truly indebted to the valor of the American soldier. Written by Linda Sumner Urza, One fine day 

(In 1953 the people of Emporia, Kansas called the holiday Veterans Day in honor and gratitude to the veterans of their town. Soon after congress passed a bill introduced by Kansas congressman renaming the federal holiday to Veterans' Day. Beginning in 1954, the United States designated November 11 as Veterans day to honor veterans of all U.s. wars. In 1971 President Nixon declared it a federal holiday.) 

WHO PACKED YOUR PARACHUTE?

For those who know me well, understand that I have a great sense of appreciation for those who prepare the way for others. I am grateful for those individuals who's sacrifices have made it possible for me to live a better life, both attributing to my success and my well being.  An excellent example of the sincere appreciation for "one person who made the difference" is the story of jet pilot, Charles Plumb.

Charles Plumb was a US Navy jet pilot in Vietnam. After 75 combat missions, his plane was destroyed by a surface-to-air missile. Plumb ejected and parachuted into enemy hands. He was captured and spent 6 years in a communist Vietnamese prison. He survived the ordeal and now lectures on lessons learned from his experiences.

One day, when Plumb and his wife were sitting in a restaurant, a man at another table came up and said, “You’re Plumb, you flew jet fighters in Vietnam from the aircraft carrier Kitty Hawk and you were shot down!” “How in the world did you know that?” asked Plumb. “I packed your parachute,” the man replied. Plumb gasped in surprise and gratitude. The man shook his hand and said, “I guess it worked!” Plumb assured him, “It sure did. If that chute hadn’t opened, I wouldn’t be here today.”

Plumb couldn’t sleep that night, thinking about the man he'd met earlier in the day. Plumb says, “I kept wondering what he might have looked like in a Navy uniform: a white hat, a bib in the back, and bell-bottom trousers. I wonder how many times I might have seen him and not even said good morning, how are you, or greeted him at all - because, you see, I was a fighter pilot and he was just a sailor.” 

Plumb thought about the hundreds of hours that sailor must have spent standing in front of a long wooden table in the bowels of the ship. He would have carefully weaved the shrouds, folded the silks of each chute and given meticulous attention to detail. Every time he packed another parachute, the young sailor held in his hands the fate of someone he didn’t know. 

After reading this story, I paused to think of the hundreds of people throughout my lifetime who have "packed my parachutes!" I was very emotional, for there are many, from my mother and father to school teachers, friends, neighbors, church leaders, camp directors, aunts and uncles, sisters and brothers, grandparents, husbands and wives... the list is endless! Throughout my life, these amazing people have provided me with their strength, wisdom, courage, inspiration, protection, service, shelter, motivation, comfort, sustenance, example, sacrifice, etc., and all for the purpose of assisting me in having a successful and rewarding life. So, now I ask you, "Who packed your parachute?"

Sometimes in the daily challenges of life, we miss what is really important and perhaps overlook "the sailor" so to speak. How often do we show our gratitude by saying hello, please and thank you. Maybe we fail to congratulate someone on something wonderful that has happened to them, give a compliment, or just do something nice with no reasons in mind. 

November and December are special months of gratitude and thankfulness. As you go through this week, this month, this year, recognize the people who pack your parachutes. It may be a physical, mental, emotional or spiritual parachute, but they are all being packed by someone who sincerely cares that you land safely at your desired destination.  Written by Linda Sumner Urza, One find day

THE FALLEN SPARROW

I received the photos below from a friend and I was immediately taken aback by what I was seeing. The pictures were taken by Wilson Hsu, a freelance photographer, who sold them for a nominal fee to a newspaper in France (all copies sold out the day the pictures were published). I searched the internet for the complete story and found fragments of information, but nothing that spoke to me like the words from my own heart. I have written my interpretation as this story unfolds. 

The most beautiful and significant miracles are within our reach, but many times we are preoccupied in a world that is filled with tragedies and inexplicable events. Many people get distracted with worldly matters and become oblivious to the sweet miracles that surround daily life. In the photos below the evidence of God's love is present in the smallest of His creations. 

A sparrow swoops across the road and is fatally injured by an on coming car.  A photographer watches carefully as the tender mercies of life and death unfold.

   

The tiny sparrow is unable to fly and looks back to see its mate, who immediately responds to the fallen companion. With unfailing devotion, the sparrow continues to bring sustenance as a source of strength to the injured bird. Frequently, the tiny sparrow calls out in distress, but nothing can be done to change the fateful outcome.

The little sparrow looks on as death becomes inevitable for the injured bird, yet it responds with endless compassion until the final moment... when all is lost.

The photographer watches in awe as the little sparrow tries to revive the fallen bird. It makes several attempts to lift its companion into the air, not yet aware that the little bird has died. Then the sparrow releases its clutches and steps back to mourn the death of its beloved companion.

The distressful chirping of the sparrow echoes through the streets and its sounds as if the little bird is calling out in anguish. All that is left is the reality that this life is fragile and incomplete.

As it mourns the loss of its mate, the cries of the chirping bird is conclusive, for there is anger, there is sorrow and there is evidence of a searing pain that cannot be extinguished. Within the tiniest of God's creatures, there is a deep understanding for the eternal principles of love.

The accuracy depicted in these photos is remarkable and for those who have lost a loved one, there is empathy in the sorrow. Many people believe that animals do not have the ability to express feelings or emotions, but these pictures are a witness of the love and the pain of God's creatures. The scriptures teach us that Father in Heaven knows when the tiniest sparrow falls, than how much more is it that He cares for His children. 

One day you may have a loved one fall by the wayside. Your first instinct will be to do everything possible to revive the magnificent spirit that once was, but reality will prevail. 

This life is fragile and incomplete, every moment in time is precious and cannot be recreated. Bask in the grace of God's light, live simply, love generously, care deeply and speak kindly. Our lives are but a small moment in the realm of the eternities and we will all experience the plight of the little sparrow. We too, will understand the depth of a love lost. Written by Linda Sumner Urza, One fine day

                                     

                                      Grace is God reaching down

                                     Faith is a Child of God reaching back

                                     

CALLS FROM BEYOND

On the autumn day of September 12, 2008, at 4:22 p.m. in California's San Fernando Valley, a commuter train carrying 225 passengers collided with an oncoming freight train at the combine speeds of 83 mph. 

It was known as the Chatsworth crash and was the deadliest incident in Metrolink's history. 135 people were injured and of those 87 were taken to hospitals, 46 were in critical condition, and another 25 passengers died. It was a vivid and shocking scene to those who rendered emergency services.

One of the deceased was Charles E. Peck, a 49 year old customer service agent for Delta Airline's Salt Lake City International Airport. Peck had come to Los Angeles for a job interview and was hoping to transfer there to be nearer to his fiancee, Andrea Katz of Westlake Village. 

While on the way to the station to get Charles, Andrea heard about the accident on her car radio! Riding with her in the car on that day were his grown sons from a previous marriage, his father and his step mother. Everyone was devastated by the tragic news and mourned the loss of their beloved Charles. Later that day, they were notified that his body had not yet been found and the rest of the wreckage was mangled beyond description. 

Charles Pecks body was recovered among the debris almost 12 hours after the collision, yet for the first seven hours his cellphone placed 35 calls to his loved ones. The calls came in, one call after another and were placed to his brother, his step mother, his son and his fiancee repeatedly throughout the night. When the family members answered the calls, there was nothing but static on the other end of the line. When they called the number back, it went straight to his voice mail! The calls gave them hope that the man they loved was somehow still alive. 

The phone calls prompted a crew to trace the whereabouts of the signal and to search again thoroughly through the wreckage. About an hour after the phone calls stopped, the rescue team found the general location where the calls were coming from and located Charles Peck's body. All evidence indicated that he was killed instantly.

The autopsy was conclusive that Charles had died on impact, yet hours after his death his cell phone continued to reach out to those he loved the most. Although his cellphone signals were responsible in leading the rescue team to Peck's remains, the cellphone itself was never found among the debris. 

The mysterious calls were puzzling to the authorities. The 35 calls were indeed placed from Peck's cellphone. They were received intermittently by four family members on that September night, but who made the calls? The static on the other end of the line is indicative of a damaged cellphone, but who dialed the numbers? Is it possible that Charles Peck could have been reaching out to his loved ones from beyond - as a final goodbye?  Perhaps we will never know the answers to these questions and this story will continue to remain a mystery, at least in this lifetime! Written by Linda Sumner Urza, One fine day