"The present is an age of pleasure seeking, and men are losing their sanity in the mad rush for sensations that do but excite and disappoint. In this day of counterfeits, adulterations, and base imitations, the devil is busier than he has ever been in the course of human history, in the manufacture of pleasures, both old and new; and these he offers for sale in most attractive fashion, falsely labeled, Happiness...He puts up the stuff in bright-colored packages, tied with tinsel string and tassel...Follow one of the purchasers as he goes off gloating with his gaudy packet, and watch him as he opens it. What finds he inside the gilded wrapping? He has expected fragrant happiness, but uncovers only an inferior brand of pleasure, the stench of which is nauseating." (James E. Talmage, Improvement Era, vol. 17, no. 2, pp. 172-73)
This is true especially in the Holiday seasons. Let us remember what the true "present" of Christmas is. I am so grateful for Jesus Christ and his matchless life and example. May we be "an example of the believers" that we may share the greatest gift this world has ever received▬Jesus Christ "Wherefore, do not spend money for that which is of no worth, nor your labor for that which cannot satisfy. Hearken diligently unto me, and remember the words which I have spoken; and come unto the Holy One of Israel, and feast upon that which perisheth not, neither can be corrupted, and let your soul delight.." 2 Nephi 9:51
