This Christmas Season arrived faster than Santa on Christmas Eve! I feel like we just kicked off Auburn football and carved Halloween jack-o-lanterns. Today, I woke up to the realization that, believe it or not, it’s time to deck the halls and trim the tree.
How did December get here so fast? In all honesty, I grumbled, like that grouchy, green Grinch, saying that there was no way I was going to dig out the holiday boxes, put up those time-consuming Christmas trees, and adorn the fireplace with garland and stockings. It really left me feeling like boycotting the decorations, the planning, and the holiday cheer. I had even started saying “Bah-Hum-Bug” and “Remind how many days until Spring Break” around the house. Then, that Christmas spirit hit me square in my Grinch face with one single reminder… I needed to remember my “why”.
Why is this time of year celebrated with twinkling lights, bright bows, peppermint scents, and joyful gatherings? Why does the closing of another year involve families coming together to exchange gifts and gratitude, running around town for festive fun, and scurrying over the hills and through the snow to grandma’s house? For me, the “why” is my children and the joy it brings them year after year. I am reminded of the old saying, “They are only little once,” and that spark of holiday cheer comes right back. So, it’s off to the basement to drag out those once-a-year Christmas decorations and joyfully fill my house and my heart with the much-needed Christmas spirit.
In this month’s feature article, 10 Commandments for More Holiday Cheer, the author encourages us to remember “the why” this season. It may be your children, too, or maybe another reason, but let’s take a moment to reflect on why we make a bit of a fuss each December. From that enchantment glow on toddlers’ faces to the warmth of being remembered by an elderly aunt, remembering “the why” we celebrate in such a festive way can bring much-needed happiness to others and in our own lives, too. Also, for my family, it’s a time to truly remember the reason for the season and celebrate the birth of our Savior, Jesus.
Another tip the author suggests is to invite your partner to participate. Yes, I am a perfectionistic mom (admitting it is the first step), and yes, I must be reminded to ask others for help at times, especially during the busy end-of-the-year chaos. It’s no wonder the Grinch makes her appearance, with all the magic making in the house and dashing from store to store, all the while checking her list twice. It’s hard to ask for help, but reaching out to a partner or friends can be a blessing to both. My husband would do anything to help; he just may not know where to start. A simple request to help with the tree topper, the grocery list, and wrapping gifts may be all he was waiting for. Including others in the preparation helps take some of the stress away, and it might even be time with you that was at the top of their Christmas wish list.
So, reach out to others, get the tinsel on the tree, and grab your scarves for the downtown parades because “your why” is waiting to share in that Christmas joy, too. From one parent to another, Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
