The holidays come and the busyness of life heightens, doesn’t it?
In addition to the every day, there are cards to be sent, presents to be bought, cookies to be baked, a tree to be trimmed and so much more.
Amidst the chaos, I find myself stretched thin, in a holiday fog as I go from one thing to the next.
Please tell me you can relate.
From Black Friday to New Year’s life is just go, go, go.
But not this year.
This year, I am making a commitment.
I will be present.
I will not get overwhelmed.
I will serve the poor.
I will enjoy holiday traditions.
I will be present.
I will not overcommit.
I will bless others.
I will reflect on the majesty of the Lord as I sing “Silent Night”.
I will be present.
Will you join me in this commitment to be present?
Let’s make this holiday season extra beautiful by taking things in stride, enjoying the moments and giving thanks to the One who came to earth for us.
Leave a Comment
Kerry A. says
Thanks for the reminder Jessica! I think all of us are overwhelmed this time of year. I think we forget about right now this second. I will be present. Giving thanks to God daily.
Beth Williams says
Our lives are sort of hectic with out kids.
Hubby drives 64 miles round trip to work daily–not to mention he must be there at 6:30 am. I on the other hand need not be there till 8:00 AM. Daily I get home at 5pm and he sometimes not till 6pm. Then shower, eat, spend time together and off to bed by 9pm. Whew! What a day! Add to that going to church adds another 1 hr drive time.
We live simply and minimalize everything. Just a small tree that fits on a stool, maybe caroling with church–definitely church Christmas dinner and visit family on Christmas day. We try our best to remember the reason for the season.
I am appalled by the “commercialism” of Christmas and that Christmas now starts right after halloween–never mind Thanksgiving!
I don’t feel that people need to be going, going, going–they need to be with family more and share with the young ones the true meaning of Christmas–Like Charlie Brown does!
Tricia says
I am with you. It took a long time but I learned several years ago the importance of being present. The memories and quality time spent with family will be remembered much longer than all the other “extras” that often add stress to the holidays.
Nikole Hahn says
The real question is: how often do you make this resolution to simplify Christmas? LOL. Every month I work at balancing my time and simplifying my life. Some months it works. Some months I about pull out my hair. Still, there’s joy even when Christmas gets busy.
Gosia says
Hello, Ladies, I really do not understand this concept of “Holiday madness”, all the tension; presents; obsessive shopping; mad cooking; so-called obligations, oh, we have to do this or that, without which Christmas would not happen! Please relax. The anniversary of our Lord’s birth will come and go, the question is, are you going to experience it truly this year, beyond all the pressies, yummy meals and so on? OK, so dress up for it if you must, I understand this is somehow mandatory for American / Western women, though why, I fail to comprehend. Close your eyes and pray. Read the Bible. And, above all, get rid of the consumerism! It’s time!
I am a Russian Orthodox Christian, hence a different take on Christimas. Hope you enjoy! ;-D
Rochelle says
Totally agreed. Wholeheartedly in this with you!
Thanks for this; needed it!!!! 🙂
KellyBurton says
I am sort of forced into this by circumstance this year…
and am grateful for it.