Dear Editor: I am writing to you because I wanted to show my gratitude to God for giving me my best Christmas ever. It began on the nights of the 17th and 18th of December when I felt that my help was not needed anymore. The negative voice was trying to influence me and for a moment it won me over by making me feel down.

But the Lord and our Blessed Mother Mary and St. Joseph helped me overcome this temptation by teaching my heart to be content with whatever will be given to me.

During the night of Dec. 18, when I reached the Faith Formation Office I was welcomed by a good friend and she invited me to go with her to attend the school’s Christmas concert. It was my first time to hear the “Happy Birthday” song to Jesus. I was happy to be there and witnessed the joy of the celebration of Christmas from the students, teachers, alumni, parents and everyone present.

The principal reminded everyone that “Jesus is the reason for the season.”

I went ahead to attend the Christmas Eve Mass near our home despite my mother’s warning of the danger of walking alone at night in our area. I wanted to see Jesus. God did not disappoint me. Even though the church didn’t seem packed 10 minutes before the Mass, I felt the joyous anticipation of those who were present. The liturgical celebration may not have seemed to be grand but it was beautiful from the beginning to the end.

The priest said in his homily that “we do not make Christmas,” which helped me understand and accept that happiness is not something we can achieve but rather it is God’s gift to us. Indeed, the joy we experience especially during Christmas is God’s work.

Thank you, Jesus, for letting me be at the Mass the night before your birthday. Happy Birthday, Jesus, and Merry Christmas to all.

THERESA JOY ANN UY

Elmhurst