I’m glad you are here to celebrate!
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I was listening to a podcast last week discussing the rub between expectations and reality. For most of us, the holiday season is filled with expectations. When reality doesn’t align with expectations then we can feel disappointed.
Once again, I’m reminded how we’re all bumping around this world together. My Christmas memories are warm and magical. This isn’t true for everyone.
Each December, we pull out the decorations and begin to set in motion a season of traditions. At this point, I have little expectation that anything will be smooth. December is a month of meltdowns, lies and angry fits.
I still have an expectation that it can be something different. Finally, eleven years into this forever family, things are starting to shift. I’m pretty sure it’s all because of traditions. We’ve set in motion different expectations for the season.
- Decorating Day. Everyone helps, and even though the oldest kids teased about watching Polar Express in the afternoon, they still piled in the living room and drank hot cocoa out of Christmas mugs. Sometimes they sang along with the songs.
- They decorate Christmas cookies, without any prompting. They share the sprinkles, do their share of the cookies and talk about memories of overdecorated Christmas cookies when they were little.
- Cracking the code to Christmas presents. Every few years I don’t put names on the Christmas presents and they need to crack the code. This seems to bring both annoyance and delight. This year they are sure it’s graduation years.
If this holiday season is a tough one, I invite you to consider a tradition. It doesn’t need to be fancy, and don’t overcomplicate it. Select something that helps you slow down and be present. Maybe a walk at night with a friend to see the lights in your neighborhood. Or something just for you — a special brew you drink just on December Saturdays. It’s okay if you don’t have a tradition, start a new one. Don’t wait. You are worth it.
Traditions are a catalyst to healing. And the truth is, we’ve all been roughed up by the world and could use a bit of healing. I’d love to hear the traditions that are good for your soul.
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