December 2002

Here we are again. Smack dab in the middle of the holiday season, trying very hard not to kill anyone with all of our holiday stress. This can be a very joyful time of year with Chanukah and Christmas and Kwanzaa, all wonderful, spiritual and fun holidays. Unfortunately, that is not what we actually do.

The way we typically spend our holidays is to run around trying to find gifts, food, cards, decorations and anything else that will make this year a “perfect” holiday. Okay, news flash: the only time you see perfection is on commercials and movies and they get to practice several times before actually doing it! Not to mention that they get paid for it! So, let’s settle for something a little different.

Start with focusing on what is really important to you for the holidays. Is it throwing a big blow out party? Is it a quiet evening at home with the people closest to you? Is it volunteering to feed the homeless? Is it spending time in church or synagogue? Once you have that figured out, start saying no to other things. I know that that is difficult, but it really will help you to enjoy your holidays more.

And don’t feel guilty for saying no, leave the guilt for where it is needed, like having that extra glass or two of eggnog!

Happy holidays and may we all have a peaceful and happy new year.