You've worked so hard to make a happy holiday season for the people you love -- the rest of us have no idea what it's taken you to get to this point. Absolutely none. The list making, the scurrying around the Internet and the mall, the worrying about how to find the perfect gift for this person and that, the wrapping, and on and on.
Why do you do it, year after year? What's behind the effort you put in to create a Merry Christmas for the ones you love and the ones you appreciate? The answer is simple.
Your motivation for a Merry Christmas is to create happiness
for others because yours is a kind and loving heart -- and always has been.
I'm saying this to you right up front because of an email I received from a family member in response to my recent blog "7 Steps to Being A Kinder Person." She wrote, "OMG. I do feel I'm a very kind person!!"
After the initial shock, I discovered the lesson and the gift she'd given me. I could see that I hadn't made it clear in the blog that you are already kind, and my point is always to remind you of steps you can take to be that person.
So now that you're here, how do find your way to a Merry Christmas?
1. Pat yourself on the back -- good job!
2. Don't worry -- be happy. You've done all you can, so let yourself enjoy it.
3. Christmas can be such a healing time -- do what you can to help it happen.
4. Keep an eye out for those who need your kindness.
5. Remember that this can be a tough time for some people. Express your compassion to those who have reason to be sad or troubled at this time.
6. Breathe, slow down, have fun whatever you're doing.
7. Follow the voice in your heart.
If I seem to be quoting the Dalai Lama lately, it's because I'm writing about kindness and his wisdom expresses it so clearly and wisely.
If you want others to be happy, practice compassion.
If you want to be happy, practice compassion.
Happy holidays to you and a big thanks for appreciating me. Your kindness keeps me going.
Remember, I love you, just the way you are.
What are your secrets for happy holiday times? Scroll down to share your answer or make a comment -- or write to me: jinny@bestyearyet.com. I'd love to hear from you.
For more by Jinny Ditzler, click here.
For more on life lessons, click here.
For more about Best Year Yet, click here.