The time for time out
Give thanks for small pleasures this Christmas
While sometimes we wished for more, we didn’t expect any more than that. And we were happy.
SO IT’S almost here – Christmas Day.
Tonight the work will be done. Presents are wrapped, food is cooked and family or friends are lined up to come and have dinner or not, depending on what you want for your peace of mind through this special day.
I grew up with brothers and sisters in what was called a “broken home”. Dad had left, mum had to work and we had to contribute by doing the list of tasks that kept a large household intact.
While we didn’t have much money in the house we did have a lot of love. I remember that my presents were often hand me down from my brothers – pushbike, sports gear and even clothing – and I’d always get a new book or socks and hankies.
While sometimes we wished for more, we didn’t expect any more than that because that was the way it was. And we were happy.
On Christmas Day we would all help prepare the food, set the table and lay out the presents with great delight and lots of noise. We’d talk about the year and give thanks for small things that had kept us as a family. We would leave the table groaning full, clean up the remains then go and find somewhere to read or snooze and calm would come over the house – and that would often be the best part of the day.
So that was then and this is now. The same things happen in our house where we spend time appreciating what we have, giving thanks for the small things that have kept us as a family this year and making sure that we let those we love know that we love them and why.
For some families Christmas is the joyful culmination of anticipation and for some it’s an anxious and challenging time. Whatever the experience and wherever you are remember it’s a time for peace and goodwill to all – including and importantly to yourself.
So if you’ve had a challenging year or run up to Christmas and are feeling a little lost, then plan to give yourself some time out, treat yourself to the small pleasures that give you a boost and if at all possible keep the perspective that it’s an opportunity to relax and let things roll with everyone contributing in small ways to make a great day.
We wish you a joyous, fulfilled and loving day. Have a very Merry Christmas and we look forward to writing for you in the New Year.