Browsing Tag

Christmas

Advice Column Household Lifestyle

Embracing Peace: A Christmas Message

December 8, 2023

As the holiday season approaches, our hearts fill with anticipation for the festivities, gatherings and the spirit of togetherness that Christmas brings. However, amidst the joy and warmth of the season, it’s important to remember that maintaining our inner peace is a gift we should never allow anyone to take away, not even during Christmas.

In a world filled with hustle and bustle, it’s easy to get caught up in the chaos that can sometimes accompany the holiday season. Whether it’s the stress of holiday shopping, family dynamics, or the pressures of creating the perfect Christmas experience, we often find ourselves losing sight of what truly matters. The result is an erosion of our inner peace.

But this Christmas, let’s make a conscious decision to safeguard our peace. Here’s why it’s essential.

1. Peace is a precious gift. Your inner peace is a treasure that should be cherished and protected. It’s the calm in the storm, the sanctuary in the chaos, and the source of your strength.

2. It’s essential for well-being. Peace is not just a state of mind; it also has a significant impact on your physical and emotional well-being. Stress and turmoil can take a toll on your health, while peace promotes overall well-being.

3. Better connections: When you carry your inner peace, you can better connect with others, spreading the joy and harmony of the season. Your presence will be a gift to those around you.

4. Mindful celebration: A peaceful state of mind allows you to be more present and fully enjoy the beauty of Christmas. You can savor the little moments, the twinkling lights, and the warmth of loved ones.

So how can you ensure that no one takes away your peace this Christmas?

1. Set boundaries: Establish clear boundaries to protect your time and energy. Learn to say no when necessary, and prioritize self-care.

2. Practice mindfulness: Embrace the practice of mindfulness to stay grounded and focused on the present moment. Let go of worries about the past and future. (I know easier said that done.)

3. Choose your battles: Not every disagreement or conflict requires your involvement. Priortize peace over winning arguments.

4. Gratitude: Focus on the blessings in your life and the things that truly matter. Gratitude can help you maintain a positive perspective.

5. Self-compassion: Be kind to yourself. You don’t have to be perfect and its okay to take a step back and recharge when needed.

6. Find your sanctuary: Identify a quiet space or activity that brings you peace, whether it’s reading, mediation, or a walk in nature.

This Christmas, let’s make a commitment to ourselves to never let anyone take away your peace. In doing so, we can truly embrace the spirit of the season, share love and joy with others, and create cherished memories that will last a lifetime. Remember that your inner peace is a gift you can give to yourself, and it’s a gift that keeps on giving.

Lifestyle

A Mother’s Christmas Wish

December 7, 2017

Christmas is right around the corner. It’s such a wonderful time filled with traditions and family, but not for everyone – every year. See, Christmas and other holidays are hard for many people including myself. My son lives far away and this, along with many other things, have caused a disconnection.

Each year, I try working through the sadness by being a Secret Santa for a family in need, gift buying for my Chihuahuas and something small for my husband. My true wish is to have the one thing that isn’t in the cards right now; my son home for Christmas. I would love to hear his voice and reminisce about all the skateboarding, playing video games and good times that we had with each other.

For now, my wish is peace on earth, peace for others and hopefully, for me, peace within. As the song says, “Let there be peace on earth and let it begin with me.”  For this Christmas and for each day after, I wish for peace within your mind, body and spirit but, most importantly, within your heart.

My Christmas Wish For You

My Christmas wish for you, my friend
Is not a simple one
For I wish you hope and joy and peace
Days filled with warmth and sun

 I wish you love and friendship too
Throughout the coming year
Lots of laughter and happiness
To fill your world with cheer

 May you count your blessings, one by one
And when totaled by the lot
May you find all you’ve been given
To be more than what you sought

 May your journeys be short, your burdens light
May your spirit never grow old
May all your clouds have silver linings
And your rainbows pots of gold

 I wish this all and so much more
May all your dreams come true
May you have a Merry Christmas friend
And a happy New Year, too.

-author unknown

 

Merry Christmas!