Thursday, November 24, 2011

Less is more! More peace, more joy, more pleasure...

Life can get crazy around the holidays, with a mountain of extra busy-ness we pull down upon ourselves.  Let's give ourselves the gift of taking a few moments to consider all we do relative to the holidays--does it really need to be done, or done in the way "it has always been done"?  Here are some suggestions: 
1) Clean AFTER a party or a visit by guests, and not so much before. Those folks who would fuss about your cleaning efforts should maybe be dropped from the guest list?  Most folks don't notice or care about such things.
2) Start an investment account for beloved children in your life, rather than giving them meaningless toys or clothes they'll soon grow out of or dislike. Regular contributions build up to an amazing gift in the future, and greatly simplify your gift-giving efforts.
3) Ask for help.  This is an excellent practical and spiritual practice. We are here to be blessings for each other--give someone the opportunity to help you and you both benefit.
4) At least once a week, enjoy a "get to" activity (as opposed to "have to"), such as attending a concert, reading a good book by the fire, or relaxing in a warm, scented bath.  A well-cared-for and relaxed you is much more pleasant to be around.
5) Invite those you celebrate with to consider new ways of doing things. More thinkers mean more creative ideas, such as a new theme for a Christmas feast.  We had "Christmas pizza" for several years, because that was the one food everyone in the family loved. 
We can change, and we can simplify, and we can live a graceful, peaceful December.  Give it some thought!  Merry Christmas!
Love and joy,
Leta

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