You're a Mean One, Mr. Grinch

Today, we were going to take the kids to our downtown museum for a holiday celebration. They've been out of school for two snow days, and with the weekend, they've got a touch of cabin fever. But as we got out, the roads were in poor condition, so we decided to do our grocery shopping at Walmart instead.

Walmart. 18 days before Christmas. On a Saturday. Not smart.

Yes, it was crowded. People were constantly in the way. I felt in the way. We navigated packed aisles and crowded pathways. And you know what I noticed? NO ONE was enjoying themselves. No one was filled with holiday cheer. No one greeted each other or smiled or even acknowledged each other.

What's happened to us?

We listen to all those happy Christmas songs and reminisce about Christmases past. In the bustle and the shopping and the craziness, we've lost the heart of Christmas. We've forgotten the magic.

How do we get it back?

I challenge you to make eye contact with people while you're out. Smile. Say, "Merry Christmas." Embrace the joy and spread it. Reach out, even if people don't respond. And don't lose sight of what Christmas is truly about. If you don't know, hearken back to a true classic.