The other day as I walked into a store I heard the Salvation Army bell ringing in a constant rhythm marking for me the beginning of giving in the spirit of Christmas. For most, this constant ringing stands out only for a moment, as it fades into the chaos of the Christmas rush. Although the bell was far away its ringing became clearer to me as images of those less fortunate, those who suffer, and those who live in the fringes of our communities flashed through my mind.
The holidays, at best, are stressful occasions in our lives and this holiday season is no exception. For most of us, the holiday season brings to mind images of friends and families enjoying conversation and cheer around an elaborately decorated dinner table overflowing with food and drinks. Advertisers embrace this season by presenting pictures of cars, diamonds, and other expensive gifts.
The reality of the holidays is usually different than those commercial images. Many of us struggle to meet the challenges of a season that should fill us with Joy, but instead can overwhelm us with unrealistic expectations. In our current economic downturn, this may be the year to find and relish the true meaning and feeling of Christmas. Here are a few ideas you may find helpful in surviving a Hard Candy Christmas:
• Gifts: For years within my family, I have advocated an elimination of gift giving during the holidays. To me, time filled with good food, stimulating conversation, and laughter is far more important and rewarding. Trinkets, toys, and expensive gifts will soon be set aside, but memories of laughter and listening to one another will warm our hearts for years to come.
• Time: Give the gift of your time. Spending time with a child baking cookies or a family recipe will build memories that will last a lifetime. I wish my Aunt Vicky would have taken the time to teach me the secrets of her apple stack cake rather than the gifts I no longer have or remember. Take the family and volunteer a few hours at a local shelter or food kitchen serving those less fortunate.
• Cheer: Set aside time to call on friends, family, or an elderly neighbor who may be feeling isolated or lonely during the holidays. Spreading cheer doesn’t have to cost anything, a conversation and a laugh, while reminiscing of times past may bring more joy and peace than an expensive gift sent by mail or dropped off in a rush. Nothing will bring more cheer and memories than family and friends caroling and enjoying hot coffee or chocolate as they lift their voices in holiday song.
There are many deserving charities to donate time or a few dollars to help others while realizing the true meaning of Christmas. For me, the meaning of Christmas is about a smile, a chuckle in one’s heart, the warmth of family, and being healthy. Take the time this holiday season to be kind to one another, to smile, to laugh, and to exchange good tidings. A Hard Candy Christmas may have more meaning and bring more joy if we take the time to give of ourselves.
Believe in the wonder, delight in the magic. Merry Christmas!
Howard Baker, RN BSN
For questions, comments, or suggestions on topics you want to read about please email me at: howard@howardsbaker.com
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