Thursday, December 14, 2006

Holidays=Stress?

It's that time of year again- the Holiday Season. It is supposed to be the season of perpetual peace and joy. Why then are we driven into a frenzy that would rival Walmart on Black Friday? Why have we allowed this season to become the most difficult time of the year?

I am dealing with many personal stresses this year. Some I have put upon myself, some I have chosen, and some I feel are not within my power to say no. I chose to bake 6 different kinds of cookies. I chose to go above and beyond in my Christmas shopping. And it is my decision to accept each of the invitations I have received for different holiday events. But I also have strained relationships between family members that I got caught in the middle of and am trying to keep good connections with. Certain events I am committed to have overlapped in scheduling, bringing out the nascar driver within me (both in the car and out). And what can you do about work and other normal events that are still occurring?

I long for a simpler time when everyone gathered together for one day. Each person brought something so preparations didn't fall to one person. Decorations were created as part of the day's activities. Gifts were shared around the circle equally. It was a time of love and community. A time to enjoy the company of others in a relaxed, inviting, unhurried environment. These were holidays of days gone by, when perpetual love and peace seemed to truly exist.

All that aside, I still look forward to Christmas every year: Of course the food is the best of the year and the warmth of hot cocoa fills me with cheer; Christmas music-oh how it makes me smile; who can argue that presents aren't wonderful; the twinkling lights tickle my fancy; and friends and family gathering near is the best gift of all!