Discovering Holiday Kindness Through Global Traditions

The December holiday season often inspires a spirit of kindness and generosity worldwide. As individuals reflect on their traditions, the ways in which they express goodwill can vary significantly across cultures. For instance, the experiences of young travelers can reveal the unique customs that shape the holiday spirit in different countries, such as the Czech Republic.

During a visit to the Czech Republic, a young American encountered several unusual traditions associated with Christmas. Among these was the practice of purchasing a live carp and keeping it in the bathtub until Christmas Eve, when it would be prepared as a meal, symbolizing good luck and prosperity. Another striking custom involved St. Nicholas, who arrives accompanied by an angel and a devil. This trio assesses children’s behavior, rewarding the well-behaved with treats while threatening the naughty with coal or potatoes. The most impactful tradition observed was the belief that it is not Santa Claus, but rather the baby Jesus, who delivers gifts on Christmas Eve. This custom emphasizes the Christian belief in giving, reflecting the desire to honor the nativity scene where Jesus was born.

The act of gift-giving during the holiday season holds profound significance for many. It serves as a reminder of the wise men who brought gifts to Jesus, as reflected in the lyrics of the French Christmas processional, which invite listeners to “enter now the holy stable to behold the blessed sight.” This sentiment invites people of all faiths—and those without religious affiliation—to consider how they can spread kindness.

One poignant example of this spirit of giving comes from Glen L. Rudd, who, while managing a bishops’ storehouse, learned of a struggling family in need. Upon visiting the family, he found a single mother with four young children, unable to afford even a Christmas tree. The children’s simple wishes highlighted their dire circumstances. The mother expressed the difficulty of providing treats or presents, while her son humbly asked for a bowl of oatmeal. Such stories underscore the reality that many people face significant challenges during the holidays.

For those seeking ways to contribute, the **Light the World** campaign, organized annually by **The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints**, offers numerous service ideas. The campaign encourages individuals to engage in acts of kindness, whether by sharing a song, donating food, or offering time in service to others. The initiative features a Kindness Randomizer on its website, which provides suggestions to inspire community involvement.

As the holiday season approaches, the opportunity to spread goodwill becomes even more significant. Through small gestures, individuals can bring joy to those in need and experience a connection to the broader message of the season. By reaching out and offering support, every person can contribute to a world that embodies kindness, reflecting the love and compassion associated with the holiday spirit.

Jonathan Stapley serves as the president of the **Reading Pennsylvania Stake** of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, overseeing the spiritual leadership of nine congregations throughout southeastern Pennsylvania. He can be reached at [email protected]. For further information about the church and its initiatives, visit www.comeuntochrist.org.