Take a moment, and think about some of your most cherished memories of the holiday season. Not just a split second of thinking before continuing on reading, really take a good few minutes to think about some of your favorite memories, and what made them so special and memorable. I can wait while you take your time to do that.
I don’t know about you, but for me my favorite Christmas memories were all about the special people in my life. My favorite memories have nothing to do with what myself or my loved ones looked like, or how much money they spent or had, or whether or not everything was just perfect. They are moments of laughter (like the family witnessing the beloved Christmas turkey catching fire, a story that we all share and have laughed over ever since). They are moments of sadness (like being with loved ones for what you know will be their last Christmas, or celebrating Christmas with those who remain and all sharing the grief of that special one not being there). They are moments of surprise (like surprising a family member with a Christmas visit to Australia, all the way from Canada). They are moments of just being with people while they can authentically be themselves and loved for just that (like singing carols by candlelight or sharing family stories of Christmas past).
Hold onto those past memories and what made them special when thinking about what you want this Christmas to be about. Not social media or media in general or what others may think. Take another moment now, What meaningful memories do you want to create this year? What memories could be a bright light after the mess of 2020?
Whether you are able to be with loved ones, or are kept a part because of COVID or other reasons, make sure you tell the people in your life that you love them. You never know if this Christmas will be their last or when you will see them next. In this year of disconnection it can be easy to forget that the love is still there, so it is even more lovely to hear that people care.
Be kind. Be authentically you. May you have many beautiful memories this holiday season!
drsarahpegrum 