The holidays are a time for giving and receiving. Searching for the perfect gift with a certain person in mind, boxing and wrapping it, putting on a ribbon and a bow, and finally the tag that designates “to” and “from”. The gift is often put under a tree in anticipation for the night or morning of opening time.
When I talk about giving and receiving, I don’t just mean a wrapped present under the tree. There are many other kinds of gifts. It may be the luxury of time. Quality time to spend with family, friends, and if you are lucky, a four legged friend. It may be the gift of talent. Everybody has talents, a whether they recognize it or not. Express your talent and share it with others. Another gift may be empathy. Lend an ear to someone who may be going through a difficult time.
This time of year, the stores are full of temptations. A lot of merchandise and a lot of sales. Stores lure you in with advertising deals and steals. This can be challenging and fun. At the same time it can be stressful, especially if you do not have much in your pocket book.
Don’t get too caught up in the commercialization of the holidays. Look for other ways to be thoughtful that won’t cost you money. Be creative and “make something out of nothing.” Give someone your attention and companionship.
Take time for yourself, too. Be present. Practice mindfulness. Slow down. Take in the sights, sounds and smells. Take a stroll around the block to see the houses brightly decked out in lights. Listen to the sound of snow crunching under your feet. Smell the faint woodsy smoke coming out of chimneys.
Being present can bring joy. Share this joy with others. Sharing with others can transform the holiday season into a time of happiness and health.
Unfortunately, many of you reading this article are feeling alone and isolated at this moment. No plans. Perhaps no where to go over the holidays. This is why The Gathering Place exists. We are here for you.
The biggest gift we give to our members is hope and inspiration. We celebrate this gift at our Annual Christmas Party. This year it is held on Friday, December 20th. Everybody receives a wrapped gift or two.
One year, an individual picked out his gift from under the tree with tears in his eyes. He saved the gift to open it on Christmas Day. It was the only gift he was to receive. We have many such heartfelt stories here at The Gathering Place.
A gift is thoughtful. This year give a gift to yourself. Be as prepared as you are able. If you are experiencing anticipatory anxiety, common at this time of year, remind yourself that when you go to bed tonight and fall asleep, you will wake up to a new day. Soon you will wake up and it will be a holiday. Just be in the moment, be in the day.
—By Susan C. Mader, MSSW, CPS
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