A Grateful Christmas

In addition to music, youth in South Africa are grateful for many things at Christmas. And they offer this suggestion: Rather than worrying about what you're going to receive this year, remember how much you've already been given. Here are some of the blessings for which they express thanks.

"I'm thankful that the Prophet Joseph Smith restored the gospel," says 12-year-old Rugo Francois Nortje of the Pretoria Ward. "And I'm grateful for the Book of Mormon: Another Testament of Jesus Christ. I'm thankful to know that President Thomas S. Monson is our living prophet today."

"I'm grateful for my testimony that the Savior lives and that He loves us," says Amy Vermeulen, 16. "I know that as we strive to be obedient, He will help us. I'm grateful to know that Heavenly Father answers prayers and that He will show us the things that He needs us to do."

"I'm grateful to know the Church is true, and I am grateful for the guidance that it gives me every day," says Travis Alexander, 17. "I'm grateful for programs like seminary. Every morning I have the opportunity to go and study the scriptures, and this helps me to make good choices in my life. I know that Joseph Smith was a true prophet who restored this gospel to us in the latter days, and I'm so grateful for it. Each and every day I thank Heavenly Father for the works that Joseph did. I'm also grateful for my family and how they guide me and bless me and for their continuous love. I'm grateful for a brother who is serving a mission and is a good example for me."

Vuyo Dasha, 18, says, "I'm thankful to know that Heavenly Father lives. I know He loves us so much that He sent His Son to die for us. And I am grateful beyond measure that Jesus Christ sacrificed His life so that through repentance and through His Atonement we may be able to live with our Heavenly Father again."

Why not make a list of your own blessings? You can keep it in your journal, or start a new Christmas tradition by sharing a list with others and encouraging them to make lists of their own.