Let There Be Bright

One of my favorite things about the Christmas season has always been the cheerful, merry and bright feeling that seems to be floating around in the December air.  It's as much a part of the holiday season as Christmas trees decked with lights, and it's almost contagious, that genuine happiness of the holiday season.  Y'all know what I mean.  There's just so much to be happy about.

This past week, I've had the privilege of experiencing first hand such true and genuine kindness.  I made an early morning stop at Starbucks in uniform last Friday morning, where I was greeted by a sweet lady who asked me about my uniform.  After I explained that it was just for JROTC, we got to talking about my upcoming military career and my enlistment in the Army Reserve.  She thanked me for my service, wished me and my family a Merry Christmas, then paid for my cake pop and Peppermint Mocha.  I was so thankful that morning for the privilege to serve my great country and for the gratitude and kindness of her amazing people.

But it didn't stop there.  This morning, I prepared for day two of exam week.  After only four and a half hours of sleep due to intense studying last night, coffee this morning was a must.  I headed to my second home, Starbucks, and found myself at the back of a longer-than-usual line as I shuffled in the door.  Great.  In effort to pass the time, the lady behind me mentioned that she'd never seen the line as long before.  I agreed, mentioning that I had two exams today and hoped I wouldn't be late to school.  After finally making my way to the front and ordering my Eggnog Latte, I was overcome with gratitude when she paid for my drink, told me good luck on my exams, and wished me a Merry Christmas.  "The Lord has blessed me," she said, "so I like to bless others."  Now, it's my turn.

I'm making it my personal mission to share the love this week by surprising at least two people at Starbucks, and I encourage you to do so as well.  I'm so fortunate and blessed, and I can't wait to pass on the compassion and let the joy of Christ and the Christmas season shine through me!