Christmas Songs

Instead of listening in church, I decided to read Christmas hymns and think about what they mean.  I've never thought of the lyrics in Christmas songs.  Unless it is "Last Christmas" or "All I want for Christmas."  Because those are extremely relatable, right?

When I got to "I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day" it was like reading my mind.  We hear the "old familiar carols," these "unbroken songs" that are seemingly mocked by pop singers, sung without reverence, jingled over and over, the meaning lost. But the last two verses are like: "Nuh uh!" and that was a nice punch in the face.  This song is definitely relatable.

My dad hates "Mary, Did you Know?"
Whenever it comes on the radio, he lets them sing the first line and calls out: "YES!  She did know!" then switches it.

So funny.  I bet you'll have a hard time forgetting that!

1. 1. I heard the bells on Christmas day
   Their old familiar carols play,
   And wild and sweet the words repeat
   Of peace on earth, good will to men.
2. 2. I thought how, as the day had come,
   The belfries of all Christendom
   Had rolled along th'unbroken song
   Of peace on earth, good will to men.
3. 3. And in despair I bowed my head:
   "There is no peace on earth," I said,
   "For hate is strong and mocks the song
   Of peace on earth, good will to men."
4. 4. Then pealed the bells more loud and deep:
   "God is not dead, nor doth he sleep;
   The wrong shall fail, the right prevail,
   With peace on earth, good will to men."
5. 5. Till, ringing, singing, on its way,
   The world revolved from night to day,
   A voice, a chime, a chant sublime,
   Of peace on earth, good will to men!

Teacher, do you love me?

Driving to school today, I saw a large flag off the freeway at half staff because of the tragedy in Connecticut.

Yesterday in Relief Society, the teacher played this beautiful primary song. (click here to listen) Tears immediately began flowing within the first line of the song.  There was so much in my heart at that moment.  Realizing how difficult some of my kids are, they still need to know I care.  They have the need to be reassured and loved despite how hard they make it for me to do so.  I hope they feel that.  The loved part, not how difficult it is.

Children are so precious.  I feel the weight of my responsibility to not only teach but to show I care and accept them.  This song encompasses every emotion I feel right now.  I listened to this song on the way to work today, and I think I want to make it a daily thing.

Just listen to the song.  You'll know what I mean.