I’m a traveler. I can’t remember the last time I knew where I would be spending Christmas more than a few weeks in advance. Even when I thought I had it figured out, something would change and I would end up in another city, state, or even country.
It was never business that moved me, it was always opportunity: an opportunity to explore a place I had never been; an opportunity to visit people I hadn’t seen in years; an opportunity to experience an event that was rare or hard to get to.
I have, as a result, not had many Christmas days with the traditional large family gathering. Instead, often my Christmas Day has been spent with immediate family or close friends, or even complete strangers, enjoying a quiet meal with a very small group.
It has been these small gatherings that have defined the meaning of Christmas in my mind. While others are getting together with dozens of relatives and reuniting after months or years of not seeing each other, I am bringing a few special people even closer into my life.
The opening of gifts used to signify Christmas for me as a child, and I certainly still enjoy that. There is something magical about seeing and opening all the presents that have collected by Christmas Eve, and staying up late trying to watch Santa come.
Now, though, the gifts don’t mean so much compared to the serenity and intimacy. It’s the magic of the season, not the material world, that moves me.
All too often, we let life fill us up with worry, stress, anxiety, and pressure. All too often our minds are overflowing with ideas, tasks, goals, and dreams. All too often, we are so busy we forget to slow down and enjoy quiet time.
And so, for me, Christmas has become the quintessential reminder: take a break, relax. Smell the roses for a day, with nothing busy planned, just quiet time with other like-minded people.
I enjoy the glow of candles, the smell of the wreath on the door, the festive lights, and the warmth of the fire. I love the smiles on the faces of everyone, the stamping of the feet to warm up after a walk outside, the condensation on the windows from my breath as I stare into the darkness.
And, of course, nibbling on a cookie as I wait for the sound of reindeer on the roof…
Other news
- Maybe I won’t have that last piece of pie: Holidays bring heart attacks along with revelry [www.msnbc.msn.com]
- Last-minute gifts for the I-forgot-to-shop-for: Howlingly good holiday gifts for your pets [www.msnbc.msn.com]
- Last-minute gifts for the hard-to-shop-for: Porn star politician auctions breast implants [www.msnbc.msn.com]
From the editor
Just a reminder, there will be no Weekly Wellness News issues over the Christmas holidays. The next issue will come out in three weeks, the first Monday of the new year.
I wish you and everyone you know a wonderful holiday season, filled with love and abundance and wonderfulness. May the longest nights bring you the warmest experiences.
Healthy thoughts,
Jeff
