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Being Grateful for What Goes Far Beyond Gifts Given and Received
This year the holidays look different for many as a result of the economy. Many are tightening their budgets and giving fewer gifts this year. In this country, we all have so much to be grateful for which goes far beyond the gifts given and received. One of the things I'm especially grateful for this season is my health, my family, and my friends. I am really looking forward to the time we will spend together as a family with my new niece this Christmas.
I write this newsletter with sadness after the passing this week of the husband of one of my best friend's from college. Suddenly, I am reminded that one of the best gifts is that of being with those that you love. How do you explain to children that are only three and six years old that daddy won't be there to celebrate Christmas with you this year? My heart has been broken thinking about the pain their family is experiencing and I'm reminded that there are no gifts that could ever replace the loss of a loved one.
Too often I see people stressed about everything they need "to do" this time of year to prepare for the holidays. Life doesn't need to be this way. Today, people are busier than ever; trying to accomplish more in less time - and when we just can't do it all, we blame ourselves and feel guilty. If you're feeling overwhelmed with everything that is on your plate - STOP. Sit down and prioritize what absolutely needs to be done and let the rest go. Yes, this can be hard to do, but you will feel better in the end and you will enjoy the holidays more. With the news from my friend, it really put Christmas in perspective for me this year - and helped me to reassess what was important and what I'd choose to cross of my list and eliminate this year.
Next year, in order to help you eliminate some of the stress of the season, start earlier in the year with your planning and preparation. This will help you spread out the activities that have a tendency to pile up and cause you to feel overwhelmed.
Soon, the holidays will be behind us, so enjoy them while they're here! The new year is just around the corner and is a wonderful time to set your intentions or resolutions for the new year. Getting organized is one of the top five new year's resolutions set every year - what will yours be?
I wish you and your family a peace and happiness during this holiday season and may you experience the joy of the season with family and friends.
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