No, I haven't finished my holiday shopping—I've barely started. Grrr … I mean, Happy Tuesday!
Every year it seems I get more and more Grinch-like when December rolls around. Maybe that’s not fair. I’m not really a Scrooge and of course, I have nothing against gifts. I just want to enjoy more of the simple, beautiful parts of the holidays and less of the should’s and have to’s.
I’m convinced that the real wonder of the season is felt sitting quietly in front of a sparkling tree or a crackling fireplace, basking in the glow of gratefulness for life exactly the way it is, in that very moment. Sound sappy? Yes. Is it possible? Absolutely.
Every year, the idea of going out to spend money we may not necessarily have to buy things that people don’t necessarily need or want—just to say we did or just to have presents under the tree—feels so forced and well, not fun. Clearly, many people love making their lists and checking them twice. If motives are pure, more power to them!
In my dream world:
- We offer meaningful gifts to those we truly want to show love and appreciation for and we don’t put our finances in jeopardy in the process. Handmade cards and gifts count double!
- We stand firm against pressure to do things we really don’t want to do or go places we really don’t want to go.
- Our well-being is more important than our people-pleasing.
- We set aside time and resources to help those less fortunate, allowing us the full, unparalleled experience of joy that comes from giving and touching a life.
In my dream holiday, you are your best you and I am my best me.
Every year, I am more focused on finding the real gifts: love, peace, service and gratitude, and heartfelt connections with others who value the same. Will you join me in celebrating the silent wonders this holiday season?
Cheers to a joyful holiday season, noticing the gifts that matter most. Feel free to share this with a friend. Until next time...
To your gifts!
P.S.
Gift-giving season is here again! Remember, for every "Finding the Gift" book sold, a portion goes to Big Brothers Big Sisters of Middle Tennessee! I was excited to bless them a few weeks ago on Giving Tuesday, where "our" gift was doubled! Thank you and thanks for helping me do the same in 2019.
FTG Readers Group Rocks! I'm so grateful to walk this journey with you all and I love reading your comments in our Facebook Readers Group. Please join the conversation if you're not already a member. Your voice is important!
If you haven't already, would you please leave a book review on Amazon and/or Goodreads? Thank you in advance for taking a moment to do this and much appreciation to those who already have!
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