And so it begins – the holiday blur. This year, I’m trying a whole new tactic. No shopping frenzy, no crowds, no last-minute rushes for just one more gift. I’ve decided to take my own advice and enjoy everything.
What am I doing differently? Well, in August I didn’t chop up 5 pounds of fruit to marinate in a a fifth of dark rum and a bottle of kosher concord wine, so I won’t be making Black Cake this year. I won’t be making dozens and dozens of cookies either – or dipping oranges in chocolate – although a few truffles may be in order.
I’m going to cold and rainy California for Christmas, so I’ve already put together a layered wardrobe to take along. Sacramento calls for silk thermals some nights, so I’m set this year. My one-ounce containers are ready for their quart-sized baggie transport. Jewelry, electronic devices, chargers and miscellaneous cords are all set to be popped into their own transparent traveling cases, the better to clear airport security.
I’m exploring the wonderful world of on line shopping, supplemented by craft fairs, holiday bazaars and local boutiques. I’m becoming deeply committed to gift cards. I never would have even considered this – it always had to be the carefully selected perfect gift for each person on the list. Maybe with age comes wisdom, because this year I see that the perfect gift is often the one the recipient picks for him/herself.
The Christmas gift I want to give all my clients is the joy that comes from peace. Now is the time to find that quiet place within. Christmas is not about keeping up with or out-doing. It is about sharing time with others, creating memories, and helping out a bit. That joy-from-peace comes to the centered person. Shorten the list – or chuck it. Schedule some time with yourself. Sit down. Relax. Look for the space between your thoughts, creep in and enjoy your own wholeness and perfection.
While you’re busy giving others what they want, give yourself the biggest gift of all – have a peaceful holiday season.
