Christmas this year brings something very different for our family. You see, there is a 20-year time span between the youngest and the eldest sibling - there are 7 of us. By the time my little sister Janine was born, El had moved out of the family home to start a family of her own. We've all gone our own ways, making lives for ourselves in different states, as far away as Hawaii. Never, in the history of our family have we all been together under the same roof for Christmas - can you imagine that?
So, last winter my big brother threw an idea out there: "Hey, why don't you all (ya'll) come to Atlanta next Christmas?" He now admits that he never really believed any of us would take him up on the idea. Whereas, I don't believe that any of us even hesitated! So here we are, bringing lots of business to the airlines as 40 or more, including grandchildren and their children, prepare to hop on a holiday flight to sunny Atlanta. I'm so excited!
Since we've decided to all participate in a fun holiday grab bag, there's not much shopping to do. Now that feels odd. My kids received plane tickets this year and another very special gift; the opportunity to spend the holidays with cousins, aunts, and uncles from various parts of the world. What's really cool is that my Mom is a vibrant, healthy, 87-year-old and this is most likely the Christmas gift of a lifetime for her. I can't wait to see her residing over one of the most festive holiday meals ever – and she’s not preparing it.
So, while I'm kind of missing the excitement of gift giving and holiday shopping, I know that our presence at this family reunion is the greatest gift any of us could possibly give or receive. Watching my girls, my Mom, nieces and nephews, brothers and sisters, all take delight in this time together promises to be the most precious experience. You can't put a bow on this, but I'm certain that the surprises will be many!
What is the greatest gift you've prepared this year? How do you think outside of the box when you're gift giving? Remember, the gift of time has limitless value and brings the greatest joy!
Happy Holidays!
Friday, December 14, 2007
Tuesday, December 4, 2007
Resolution vs. Gratitude
Welcome to that time of the year that says “tradition.” It’s fun to look forward to some traditions, but what about – The New Year’s Resolution? It brings a shiver to my spine! Promising resolutions are made with great determination and high energy as we commit to losing weight, gaining income, or achieving life balance. Typically though, by February these well-intentioned plans fall to the wayside only to leave us with a sense of failure and defeat.
So, why do we set ourselves up to fail? Well, some see the New Year as an opportunity to “start over.” Some feel a renewed sense of excitement brought on by holiday spirit. Perhaps plain old-fashioned guilt is your motivation? Whatever the reason, we make promises to ourselves in hopes to cure the winter doldrums and resolve our daily challenges. But it’s just not working, so what’s the real solution if not the annual resolution to create change?
Gratitude. That’s it; one word; one feeling; one monumental step toward your dreams. Taking time each day to express gratitude to others, The Universe, God, Buddha, whomever, whatever you believe in – that’s the answer. This daily exercise is the single most effective activity that may spur you toward your dreams and goals. As you write short, daily notes about the little, joyous events in your life, your internal energy level rises. This energy compounds itself with each journal entry and takes us toward new awareness’s, resulting in positive change.
If you are in a difficult place in life, you may have to start small: the beautiful snowflakes on the window ledge; a smile from a stranger; the sound of children’s laughter. Anything that brings a touch of joy to your heart will do the trick. Shoot for 3 brand-new gratitude journal entries per day. Short, sweet, and to the point.
Now here’s the trick. Each day, as you write, pay attention to your heart. Feel the gratitude develop into joy, if only for a moment. Consider your heart a bank for the deposits of joy. When you have enough saved up, your life will begin to change and wonderful things will come your way.
Post your results here! If you have questions - feel free to ask. Believe me, this practice has changed my life!
So, why do we set ourselves up to fail? Well, some see the New Year as an opportunity to “start over.” Some feel a renewed sense of excitement brought on by holiday spirit. Perhaps plain old-fashioned guilt is your motivation? Whatever the reason, we make promises to ourselves in hopes to cure the winter doldrums and resolve our daily challenges. But it’s just not working, so what’s the real solution if not the annual resolution to create change?
Gratitude. That’s it; one word; one feeling; one monumental step toward your dreams. Taking time each day to express gratitude to others, The Universe, God, Buddha, whomever, whatever you believe in – that’s the answer. This daily exercise is the single most effective activity that may spur you toward your dreams and goals. As you write short, daily notes about the little, joyous events in your life, your internal energy level rises. This energy compounds itself with each journal entry and takes us toward new awareness’s, resulting in positive change.
If you are in a difficult place in life, you may have to start small: the beautiful snowflakes on the window ledge; a smile from a stranger; the sound of children’s laughter. Anything that brings a touch of joy to your heart will do the trick. Shoot for 3 brand-new gratitude journal entries per day. Short, sweet, and to the point.
Now here’s the trick. Each day, as you write, pay attention to your heart. Feel the gratitude develop into joy, if only for a moment. Consider your heart a bank for the deposits of joy. When you have enough saved up, your life will begin to change and wonderful things will come your way.
Post your results here! If you have questions - feel free to ask. Believe me, this practice has changed my life!
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