Small children are not known for their ability to regulate their emotions, and little things can stress them out in a big way. Although something small can trigger a meltdown, simple redirection can make them completely forget what they were upset about, like this crying toddler who immediately changes her tune after seeing the gift she got for Christmas. 

The viral video opens with a toddler crying as someone offscreen unwraps a present for her. The sound of the wrapping paper tearing hurts her ears, but that is soon forgotten after her new Christmas present is revealed. Her crying is quickly replaced with excitement as she is handed her brand new brightly colored toy, and her family members cheer for her. 

The holiday season is filled with love and laughter but can also be stressful for many. Planning holiday parties, cooking big dinners for family, and finding the perfect presents for those you love can be exhausting. Some may feel like the quality of their holidays depends on how much time and effort went into planning and executing their celebrations. 

We could all take a page from this sweet toddler’s book and just focus on what is right here and right now. Allowing the simple things that are in the present to bring us joy can be more valuable than weeks of planning and loads of money spent. Slowing down and listening to your favorite song, or reading a Bible verse that calms you can be a valuable way to combat stress and anxiety. 

Whether it’s the sounds of wrapping paper or the hectic holiday season that brings you stress, refocusing on God and the simpler things that bring you joy will bring more fulfillment than anything else.

In Psalms 18:2, it is written, “The LORD is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer, my God, my strength, in whom I will trust; my buckler, and the horn of my salvation, and my high tower.”