This time of year can be challenging. There were times I could not
raise my “happy” level to match the festivities. Relationship issues, financial struggles and pressures from work have distracted me from the joyous feelings
I’m “supposed to have.” Christmas carols and festive lights felt more intrusive
than welcoming.
In general, this season radiates a warm glow for me. I love watching the
children overflowing with excitement. I feel peaceful hearing holy music. I am
blessed with many happy memories of Christmas, visiting relatives and honoring
traditions from our families.
And yet… this season has also brought disappointment and
heartbreak. Family members missing from the table, the first Christmas without
someone we have lost, and witnessing the erosion of innocence. The pain we carry
seems to amplify when we’re being encouraged to deny its existence.
There are very real issues that we manage from day to day,
and the holidays ask that we put these aside to celebrate, to refocus on the
bigger picture. We are all connected through Love. Whatever religion or holiday
you align with, this is the basic idea. Unfortunately, this tends to get lost when
we try to keep up with the expectations.
One thing I have learned through my experiences of difficult
holidays is to let go of the meaningless traditions and simplify. I have let go
of a lot. I don’t decorate anymore, because it was more work than enjoyment. I
don’t try to find the perfect gift, because I never really understood what that
meant. I don’t cook elaborate meals, because I don’t eat elaborate meals. I don’t
send cards, though I do enjoy receiving this new trend of photo cards. Maybe
one year I’ll send pictures of my husband on his bike with me in a yoga pose.
This is how I am choosing to celebrate the spirit of the
season. When I simplify my participation in the holidays, I have more freedom
to be fully present. I can see if someone feels lonely or frustrated, and I can
respond with love. I can see if the holiday traditions are so meaningful to
someone because it connects them to their past, and I can respond with love. I look
into the beautiful eyes of my loved ones, and my heart responds with Love.
To you and yours, however you celebrate this season, I wish
you all the blessings of Love.
