It’s that time of year, loves. Parties, presents, events, church, love, peace–making merry. The lights and tree are up, everything is decorated, you may have cookies in the oven now. For some, making merry and getting in the spirit is easy; for others, making merry isn’t automatic. I love the holidays, but know that for many this time of year is difficult, for many reasons. And many of us have had a hard year. This time of year is fun, brillant and beautiful, but also comes with the pressure of being merry. We often feel as if we have to be happy, and in the spirit all the time. But what if you’re not? What if you find yourself the opposite of merry? I’m no expert but I do have some ideas:
-Don’t Force It
Loves, many of us have had a hard year. The holidays in general can be difficult for some, between family issues, and the added stresses to budget, time, and the expectation that we’re merry ALL THE TIME. So you’re not in the spirit? Don’t force yourself to be. This is not me telling you to not participate in the holidays (but loves, that is valid and you don’t have to do anything you don’t want to), but me saying if it’s not natural forcing yourself to go over the top with merry isn’t a solution. Accept where you are. Do what you like. Ask your family to understand. The season is not about the biggest presents, decorations, or parties attended. The season is about love and peace, and offering that to yourself is a great celebration of the season.
-Volunteer
A gentle reminder that if you woke up this morning, have clean water that comes in both hot and cold, and know that you will eat today, you are incredibly rich. In this season of giving, remembering those who are less fortunate is something that can get you in the spirit, and help someone else. A great way? Adopt a child or family through the Salvation Army. No matter your personal level of merry, let giving someone else a holiday miracle get you in the spirit! More information on giving to the Salvation Army can be found here<.
-Do What You Love
Love Christmas music? Blast it. Love movies? Watch them. Baking? Fill your kitchen with goodies. There is no “one” or “right” way to celebrate this season. We all have different traditions, views, and ways of getting through the end of the year. No matter what it is that you love, if it brings you joy at this time of year–do it. I am aware that you may not get out of doing things that you don’t love, but if you can focus on what you do, you can find some merry there.
I’d love to know–how do you make merry? What do you do when you aren’t in the spirit?
Wishing us all a week of merry and amazing shoes! XO RA
