Emotions can run high for the holidays. This time of year seems to bring up our entire history of Christmas or Chanukah past. Hurt feelings can pop out of the woodwork when we least expect it. To keep our sanity there are a few things to keep in mind going into this yule tide season. In case your hopes and dreams are dashed, to be forewarned is to be forearmed. You are of course hoping that this year things will be different or like in the past. Whatever it may be, those memories will be playing tricks on you just like those blinking lights.
First, leave your expectations at the door. The more you expect the greater the possibility for disappointment. Not having expectations helps to just take things as they come. Like going with the flow. If you can take this season in stride and stay in the moment, have some eggnog and settle in, the better off you will be. Remember, it will be over soon enough.
Second, be flexible. No matter how much you may think you have planned, things can go south in a heart beat. You have to be ready for anything. Allowing for change means that when it does happen you will not be thrown for a loop, and start being negative when you want to be positive. Again, it's that flow.
Third, remember what this holiday is all about. It's about loving your family and friends. We've all had a tough year and what will make the next one go better is knowing that you are loved and expressing love to those you do. So, no matter what, let everyone know how much you love them and if you don't have the bucks this year then you can sure make up for it with good will. Nothing feels more like love than some home made cookies.
So when everything comes up different than you might have expected, and uncle Ned is coming with his weird sister, don't panic, don't complain, offer them some cookies with clenched teeth and a big smile. Remember what this season is all about. It's about getting through it with some good cheer.
Happy New Year!
Comments