Christmas should be no different than any other
season, but unfortunately, people have created so much pressure on themselves
to have the “Christmas Spirit” that they dread the season. If by
Christmas week they have not decorated their house or baked cookies, they believe
something is wrong with them.
I try not to think about Christmas as separate
from other days. Each day is a gift, including Christmas. And it is important for
me to appreciate the wonder of the season because after all, I am alive. Indeed, Christmas is unique, the Christmas decorations, lights, trees, sparkling and
dancing, and let’s not forget the music. All of this I appreciate, but it is still just another day.
More than anything, I enjoy the camaraderie
of family and friends that the season brings, and I wish people felt this everyday. Even strangers, are more free with their smiles. When I
recall Christmas past, I remember family and friends. I remember the
music, smiles, and laughter.
I remember things like the warm feeling
of being loved. The last couple of days, while in Alberta on business and to attend a family funeral, I have met up with some of my family and really felt the love. It is not about the gifts, is it?
Still, we, as parents, think we have to give our
kids the best and most popular gifts to make their Christmas special. I believe this is what creates the pressure, stress and unhappiness we feel at Christmas especially if we can’t afford it. Of
course, my mind always goes to those who are less fortunate. Christmas Eve, please give to Rose.
It was Christmas week that my brother Billy
died three years ago. And when people
have this type of loss, it can be difficult to get into the Christmas
spirit. It is natural to miss someone
close because you want to share this special season with them but they are no
longer here with us. This can leave a
void in us, and it does for me. It is best to remember those who we loss fondly, think about
the happy experiences you had with them and give thanks that they were part of
your life. As for my late brother Billy, I remember his smile, which always lit
up the room. When I remember that smile, I feel happy.
To have a stress free Christmas, do this. Think of Christmas like any other day, one that
you can appreciate and be grateful that you woke up to enjoy. Think of it as the first day of your life. If
you do that you’ve have spent this day very well.
Begin by seeing things through the eyes of
wonder and happiness as though you are seeing it for the very first time. The
beautiful colors of the the season, the lights, and see them with pure enjoyment.
Look up, look down, and all around you, we so rarely really see what is in our
environment. This day, right now, is unique. This day will never happen again.
Better still, call someone on the phone, or skype, and
have a conversation about how much you appreciate them. If you don’t have
anyone to call, call me. We all have an incredible story to tell, listen to it,
hear it in their voice. And on this day, all the people that you meet, all that
life, is like pure joy. Open your heart and smile because you embody the Christmas Spirit. XOXOXOXOXO
Merry Christmas!
Happy Holiday!
Happy Hanukkah!
Peace on Earth!
3 comments:
Well said, Angelina. I used to be so stressed and anxious at Christmas when I was a teenager. Sometimes I would be too ill to get out of bed to face the day. The older I got the easier it became but our family regimen was to have the house cleaned from top to bottom before the decorations were put up. Now I try to do as much as I need to but would rather spend time with friends and family. This year I didn't even put up as many decorations as usual and I am fine with it. I am much happier now. So fortunate to have lovely relatives such as you in my life. Merry Christmas.
I've also lost a brother; in fact, my only brother, and since then, I'm a different person, especially on holidays. It's hard to get into the festive mood.
Merry Christmas to you and your family!
Thank you for your comment Pearl, sending you my love and a big hug. Merry Christmas to you and Dan.
Thank you Duta for dropping by. It is never easy moving on without our beloved ones. Hugs. .Chag Urim Sameach!
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