Discovering the Spirit of Kindness Through Holiday Traditions

The December holiday season often inspires a renewed focus on kindness and generosity, transcending cultural boundaries. People around the world engage in various traditions that reflect their values and beliefs, fostering a spirit of giving. One notable example comes from the experiences of Jonathan Stapley, president of The Reading Pennsylvania Stake of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, who reflects on his encounter with holiday customs during his time living in the Czech Republic at the age of 20.

In the Czech Republic, Christmas traditions can be both fascinating and peculiar. For instance, families often buy a live carp to keep in the bathtub until Christmas Eve, when it is prepared as a festive meal believed to bring good luck and prosperity. Another striking aspect of Czech Christmas traditions involves St. Nicholas, who visits children accompanied by an angel and a devil. The angel rewards well-behaved children with treats, while the devil has the ominous task of delivering coal or potatoes to those who have misbehaved, sometimes even threatening to take away particularly naughty children.

Among the most memorable traditions is the belief that it is not Santa Claus who brings gifts on Christmas Eve, but the baby Jesus. This practice symbolizes the desire of Christians to have been present at the manger during Christ’s birth, offering their own gifts as the wise men did. The essence of this sentiment is captured in the lyrics from the French Christmas processional, “Carol to the King,” which invites listeners to tune their hearts to the music of Christ’s love.

Reflecting on these rich traditions raises an important question for everyone, regardless of their faith: How can one contribute to spreading kindness during the holiday season? A compelling example comes from a story shared by Glen L. Rudd, who, while managing a bishops’ storehouse, encountered a struggling family just before Christmas. The family, consisting of a single mother and her four children under the age of ten, faced significant challenges. The mother was unable to afford even a tree, let alone presents or treats for her children.

During his visit, Rudd learned that the children had simple wishes. The three girls hoped for dolls or stuffed animals, while their six-year-old brother expressed a desire for a bowl of oatmeal. This encounter exemplifies the profound needs that exist within communities, often hidden from view.

For those seeking inspiration to help others, the annual Light the World campaign, sponsored by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, offers a platform for service and kindness. Accessible online and via social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and X, the campaign includes a Kindness Randomizer that provides ideas for acts of service tailored to individual preferences.

This holiday season, individuals are encouraged to embrace the spirit of giving. Whether through sharing a song, offering a thoughtful gift, donating food, or volunteering time, each act of kindness contributes to a collective sense of goodwill. As Rudd and others have shown, even small gestures can make a significant impact on those in need.

Ultimately, the warmth of the holiday spirit can be felt through acts of kindness, reminding us of the importance of compassion and generosity. To learn more about the teachings of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, visit www.comeuntochrist.org.