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December 9, 2014
Dr. Allen Novian
The holidays always seem to be filled with more expectations than excitement, which can bring out the worst in us at times. Finding hope, joy and peace is an expectation of most of us at Christmastime, but actually finding any of those things can sometimes be a hard nut to crack. Between remembering those who have passed, looking at the chaos of the stores and streets, juggling the Christmas parties, recitals, school events, and untangling those Christmas lights from last year, it's easy to drop a ball... or two... or five.
Don't let your relationships, especially your mariage, fall through the cracks and disappear from your priority list. Despite how trite it sounds, Christmas isn't about the "packages, boxes, and bags." It really is about reconnecting with family, friends, and faith. If you have none of those things, then it is about finding your center in the chaos, your harbor in the storm. It's about making sure that you are well and ready for the coming year. So take a second look at your to do list. Scratch out everything that "could" be done, and focus on what "should" be done. Start each day out by kissing your spouse good morning, give your kids that extra hug before they get on the bus, and take a deep breath. At the end of the day, make sure everyone in your house knows that, even if you have friction during the day, you love them dearly, and that they are more important than your shoping list or the neighborhood Christmas light competition. Hug your spouse and give them a good night kiss, reminding them that despite the demands of the season, they remain your first priority.
Season's Greetings, Happy Holidays, and above all, Merry Christmas.