What exactly do you mean when you say that Christmas is 'too commercial' or too 'hectic' and 'stressful' and you want to just opt out and fly to Mexico and forget the whole thing... I understand what you are feeling, but I think YOU can change your response to the whole season and it won't mean that you have to fly South... So what exactly are YOU doing to make it less commercial or hectic or stressful? I have a few ideas to try...
When was the last time you went to a church concert?
Last night I attended a Christmas concert in a Catholic church. The chorus and musicians were outstanding and they sang traditional hymns and gave us a chance to sing along too. It was simple, it was real, and the only decorations were a huge Advent wreath and a few silk banners carried by the singers. It was as commercial-free as possible. And it was wonderful.
When was the last time you contributed to those less blessed than yourself?
It can be as easy as 'adopting' a needy child or family and providing gifts for them, or donating food to a food bank. You could help put together boxes for needy seniors, or help at a homeless center. You could just send a check to a deserving charity. It does NOT have to all be about buying the latest and greatest electronic gizmo... It does NOT have to be all about the shopping malls... It's all in what YOU want to do during the season..
When was the last time you practiced a random act of kindness?
- Let the other car have the last parking space in the garage?
- Put a $5.00 bill in the Salvation Army kettle- and had the bell ringer a treat & a smile.
- Leave a Starbucks card in your mail box in a thank you card for your mail carrier who brings your mail 6 days a week all year
- How about thanking the good sales people who try to help you in the really busy stores and letting their manager know how good a job they did? We all are quick to criticize and complain, but not as fast to praise... why is that?
- Give little surprises to people who don't 'expect' them... you know who those people are in your life... why NOT? Why does it all have to be on Christmas day?
When was the last time you listened to Christmas music in your car and just belted them out as loudly as possible? I guarantee it will make you smile and enjoy the time alone!
When was the last time you ate a candy cane? Remember how much you liked them as a kid?
So these are a few ideas to try. Look for the 'other' sides of the Holiday Season and enjoy them. Ignore the gross commercialism. Ignore the mean people under amazing stress. Just enjoy the good things. You can find them if you open your eyes and ears.
