Holiday Soul-lution = Space for Grace
In our go-go, hyper-connected, 24/7, device dependent society, one very rare and valuable element is space. Not exactly the “final frontier” of Captain Kirk, and not that far off actually. Space for wonder. Space for stillness. Space for spontaneity. Space for grace.
With the end of the year upon us, and all the expectations and activities that brings, leaving space for grace is my #1 priority. Especially after a year like 2021. And especially since I’m doing the holidays “alone.” Fear can quickly take hold and spur me into a flurry of plan-making and worrying, instead of trusting that I have everything I need and that all will go exactly as it should.
We’ve all heard, and I think we all know deep down, that the happiness, fulfillment and peace we seek does not come from any person, place or thing outside of us. It’s an inside job. We need to slow down long enough to 1) connect with the wisdom inside of us for what we need and want, 2) accept that reality, and 3) be guided into right action (hint: doing nothing is often the right ‘action’).
Before you scurry about for gifts, decorations, food, parties, clothes for the parties, etc., pause and ask yourself, “What is the most nourishing thing I can do (for myself) right now?” or “How do I want my holidays to be?” What is your highest priority for December? If it’s giving gifts and going to parties, then head on out and do that. If you’re really tired and want a small, quiet holiday, then put that in motion. You may start a trend.
For me, the answer is usually to take something off my calendar or to close my eyes for ten minutes or to get up and move my body or to connect with a friend. That creates space for grace. Space for creative ideas to percolate. Space to say yes to an unexpected invitation because I’m well rested. Space to meditate. Space to reflect. Space to do art. Space to be.
It took me a while to uncover those needs and then to give myself permission to take action. Breaking old habits, thought patterns and beliefs is challenging, and it is possible. You can do it! I believe in this for you.
Send me an email if you need support or encouragement. To quote Hillel the Elder (c. 60BC - 10AD), “If not now, when?”
Tidings of comfort and joy to your and yours.
xo
Journal Prompts:
What is my top priority for the year end?
How do I want to feel during the holidays?
What can I do to ensure I feel that way?
