The holiday season is such a stress filled time. For some people the stress comes from within, from wanting to please everyone; for others, the stress comes from outside, so many things to do in such a short amount of time. For me, the stress truly has nothing to do with the holidays but more of the timing in the year and the history of stress from exterior sources. It has never been the happiest time of year for me. I love giving gifts and making my loved ones happy. I love seeing the magic in children’s eyes regarding Santa and Christmas. But I also think of all those who less fortunate where Santa can’t be as generous or can’t make it there this year.
The past few years the stress of the season has been alleviated through my own doing. I have taken the pressure of myself to spend a fortune on people I don’t necessarily care about. Instead I prefer to make people things, whether it is a small book, small piece of art or cookies. These “makings” create peace within myself and hopefully bring joy to someone I love. I have also decided along the way that I don’t need to be somewhere for Christmas. I am happy to be with me or helping others. I don’t feel pressure to do things I don’t want to do.
This is the first Christmas that I am truly stress free. Thinking back to 3 years ago where my life was so different and so filled with stress, makes me emotional and happy.
Today Walter (my lovely yoga instructor) said “However you are, you are ok.” This rang particularly true in that moment for me. There are all these expectations to be cheery, or with family, or abundantly generous, or whatever those commercials tell us to be. But in reality, however we are, we are ok. And that’s enough.
lizzie fortin 