Making Merry During the Holidays

It’s that time of year. Time to be around family members who annoy us, in-laws we wish we didn’t have, and those not so savory people that we call “family.” I’m really lucky. I like my family. I really look forward to my brothers coming into town and hanging out with them. I always look forward to my sister visiting although this year has put some distance and tension between us. It breaks my heart that she has decided, for the second year in a row, to not join us for Christmas. I am heartbroken that she cannot see how important it is to all of us to have her here with us and she is annoyed that we keep pressuring her to come. Typical family stuff.

What I have come to realize is that none of this matters. This push and pull between us only adds to the tension and unhappiness. So I let it go. Christmas is but one day in the course of our lives. And what we fail to realize is that each and every day is a gift. A gift from God, from the Universe, from whomever, but a gift nonetheless. We forget that our time here is precious and limited and it can be taken from us at any second. I know this all too well.

So when your in-laws starts to annoy you, or that Uncle tells too many inappropriate jokes, try to remember that we’re all doing the best we can with what we’ve been given. Take a deep breath, extend a hand, or a hug, and remember that this, perhaps, could be the last time that all of you are gathered together under one roof for one reason or another. Logistics, schedules, and aging relatives tend to change the holidays around more than we like. Try not to be too set in your ways. Be open to new traditions and new people in your life. Instead of looking at these people as annoyances, that they are not enough like you or doing things you wouldn’t do, try taking a step back and appreciating them for who they are. Appreciate them for the daily struggles they deal with, just like you. And know that they may feel even more awkward than you do. Nobody knows what truly goes on behind closed doors; we all put up a good front.

So this holiday season, be kind to your family, friends, and strangers. Pretend this is the very last Christmas that you will ever spend on earth. If it truly was, how would it change your behavior?

Have a rockin’ Christmas
Scarlet Mom