From last minute Christmas shopping, to decorating the tree, to putting the finishing touches on our Christmas menus, December is often the busiest time of year for families in Missouri and across the nation. With a bustling house full of grandkids and increasing pressure to have beautiful gifts under the Christmas tree, I always urge my family to take a step back and appreciate the true meaning of the Christmas season.

Getting wrapped up in the expectations and pressures of Christmas can be overwhelming, but Christmas is truly a season of gratitude and giving. This year, I am grateful for a new addition to my family, a grandson, and for the opportunity to serve the great people of Missouri’s third district for another term. I am grateful for my congressional Colleagues who have been fighting to keep our economy on track and ensure every American has the opportunity to achieve their American Dream.

The excitement and hopefulness of children at this time of year is infectious. The look of pure joy on Christmas morning makes you forget about the late-night shopping trips or the stress of finding the perfect present, but we cannot forget to instill in our children and grandchildren the true meaning of Christmas. The holiday is not about the newest or most expensive gift, but about giving. Giving back to our family, giving back to our friends, and giving back to our communities.

Even the smallest acts of kindness can mean so much to those around you. Missourians understand the spirit of the season, and I am always amazed by the generosity of those in our communities who are quick to step up to the plate. The holiday season is an opportunity for each and every one of us to reach out to our friends, neighbors and loved ones in the spirit of love, charity and hope.

As a busy year comes to a close, I hope each of you gets the opportunity to rest and unwind with those you love the most. In the spirit gratitude and giving, please keep our brave armed forces in your thoughts and prayers this holiday season. While many of us focus on the trivialities of the season, military families across the nation will spend the day without their loved ones who have made unbelievable sacrifices. Their selflessness and love of country serve as the purest embodiment of the Christmas spirit and set a shining example for all Americans to follow.

I wish you all a safe, happy, and blessed holiday, Merry Christmas!