Christmas Joy.

What does it mean to you?

For me, Christmas Joy is focused on gifts, but maybe not in a traditional sense.

I am a person who takes very seriously the choosing and giving of gifts. I loathe the white elephant concept completely. It has no personal touch and loses all meaning and I simply cannot do it. When put into a situation where I don’t have an option, my sweet husband has to handle it all the way.  (thanks honey)

Here’s the thing. God planned the most unselfish, majestic and amazing gifts for me. Aside from the obvious, the gift of the infant Savior, he has blessed me with many things. I have a comfortable life. My husband and I have a committed marriage. We have children and grandchildren who are healthy and taken care of. We don’t need anything, because we have been blessed with the ability to provide for ourselves.

The least I can do is choose something as an expression of love for the people I buy or make gifts for.

I spend countless hours researching and making lists, sure to cover all my bases. I want the gift I give to someone to mean something to them. I want it to be something they can smile about. I want to make them feel loved and wanted. I choose carefully, while not forgetting frugality.

It brings me great amounts of Joy to anticipate giving the perfect gifts to them. When they finally receive their gift, I hope they love it as much as I loved putting it together for them.

Another part of Christmas Joy is spending time with family. We used to have these long afternoon and evening Christmas dinners, opening gifts and playing games. We had more desserts than a family could possibly eat. There were kids running around and the chaos was manageable.

What happens when those recipients don’t convey enjoyment of the well sought after gifts?

What happens when the family Christmas parties become more stressful than joyful?

When I give a gift which is well thought out I often wait for a reaction. Sometimes, I am disappointed. It doesn’t mean I did a terrible job. It simply meant more to me to give it than it did to them to receive it. My Joy remains intact because I cling to the idea of gifting without expectation of reciprocation.

When family Christmas parties overwhelm, I must find a way to cope. Sometimes the reason I am overwhelmed is because I am tired to begin with. Maybe there is an elephant in the room. Praying before an event helps. I also use essential oils and calming tea, careful of my caffeine consumption. When I am stressed before I go somewhere it makes my anxiety a bit edgier and more uncomfortable.  

On occasion, I may simply stay home. There are some boundaries which are put into place for our own personal protection and well-being. It is ok to make other arrangements to see those you love. It is ok to skip the drama and controversy. It is ok to enact a policy of self-preservation.

This holiday season I have simplified a bit and I hope you have too. Welcoming a new year I will cherish the quiet we have chosen. Sometimes the best gift we can give is peace to ourselves.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.

XOXO